Curt Schilling’s Official Blog

Q & A V, and it’s a long one.

For any of you newbs that didn’t get it, “The Media Sucks” was tongue in cheek. I assumed that went without saying, but obviously that was a mistaken assumption. While I certainly have issues with some, there are some pretty cool people in the sports media. Like any profession there are bad eggs but there are more good ones than bad ones in my opinion.

Since some people mistakenly thought that the Q&A was me interviewing myself, no idea how that could happen, I have taken to pasting questions instead of trying to paraphrase them.

I’ve been tackling a few questions at a time and after I get a compilation like this I’ll throw it up here.

Where there are many questions on the same subject I have attempted to take the one that covers the topic the best and address it.

I tried to do this in Word and paste but major formatting problems seem to have happened. I’ll try and adjust it but it doesn’t seem to be working well at the moment.

Q-Don’t you feel your chances at the Hall of Fame are better served staying in Boston?

A- I am not sure I could elaborate any more than I have. While I recognize most of the players in the HOF are the greatest to ever wear spikes, I cannot play 20+ years of professional baseball and worry about something that’s completely out of my control. Some, not all, but some, of the members of the media that are voters for the hall have used their ballots as platforms to make points. I think it’s horrifically unfair to a player that IS a HOF caliber player to have his career ‘voted’ on by someone that can’t comprehend how hard it was to do what he did. That being said I am not a HOF player. I know this because I’ve played with actual HOF caliber players. Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez, Manny Ramirez, Scott Rolen, Dale Murphy, Cal Ripken. When I think of Hall of Fame I think of guys like that.

Q-If you had to pick a prospect the Red Sox have to be a future star, who do you pick? (Lester, Dice K don’t count)

A- I haven’t seen enough of the young guys in camp to talk at length on any of them. Not to mention my insight into what makes a great everyday player is sorely lacking. But if I had to choose right now the kid I think has immense upside is Brandon Moss. I watched this kid hit yesterday for over a half hour and I was pretty blown away. He has immense pop for someone his size. He moves and looks like JD Drew from an athletic perspective. His BP was something to behold. I haven’t seen him play in a game so I can’t comment any further, but his bat is thunderous.

Q-The media sucks? Tell that to your kids when you come home without the puppies you promised them. You sound like ARod, “the media sucks”. “They suck so bad that I’m a quote-machine”… “It’s their fault that I can’t just zip it and play baseball”…”The sky is falling”, said Chicken Little.

A-You’re obviously one of the dolts that didn’t get it, but that’s to be expected after reading the rest of your post. Fact of the matter is if the media never comes to my locker again, and you don’t click on the link to come here, you never hear from me again, nor I you. Deal?

Q-I’m wondering how one might get involved with 38Studios? Are you hiring?

A-At the moment no we are not. We’ve got a stable of designers, artists, animators, engineers and team leaders that’s working in what could be called pre-pre-production! When we begin to look to expand the team and our President Brett Close feels we are ready to look for new hires you will find job postings at www.38studios.com

Q-If only some of the youger players had your outlook on things… you have shown respect and giving 110%.

A-I think a lot of mainstream america has this outlook, and I think it’s incorrect. Most of the guys, a huge majority of them, have my outlook or a better one than I do. This game is comprised of a lot of really great people who do a lot of incredible things.

Q-Does it irritate you at all that the FO keeps making chirpily confident statements about how if they want you at the end of the year, they’re sure they can get you?

A- No.

Q-Does their “no renewal” stance make you feel like they are, in effect, betting against you having a big year? Does that bother you?

A- As I stated earlier, I think the Sox are taking a wait and see approach. I’d prefer it not be that way, but I am more than ok with it. I can’t and won’t make it something it isn’t. I’m hopeful they’ll change their minds in the next few weeks but it’s not something I think about unless I am fielding a question here about it. There’s just too much to do to get ready to dwell on something that’s been worked through already.

Q-Why, at this point in your career, when you had been planning not to make any money from baseball in 2008, is the size of your contract still important enough to you that you would leave a team and community you enjoy to play elsewhere?

A-You have to understand that if I don’t come back to Boston next year, I will be somewhere that I enjoy. Obviously this is my first choice, but a lot better players than me have had a lot worse things happen. Steve Carlton, arguably the greatest LHP ever, was released. Mike Schmidt, Dale Murphy, a lot of guys were ‘pushed’ out before they wanted to go. It’s not personal beyond what you’d expect it to be, it’s a business. As far as the size of the contract goes, I think there are some things that most people don’t consider when trying to spend my money or negotiate my contract for me. As a member of the players union I understand that my contract is not done in a vacuum. My contract affects other players contracts, and vice versa. I’ve never worried about being in the top X% of players at my position, but at the same time I’ve always felt that I knew where I fit in the scheme of players and salaries and been more than comfortable, blessed actually, to have gotten what I have over the life of my career.

Q-Why should the Sox pay you 13 million dollars for the 08 season?

A-They shouldn’t, it’s what I asked for.

Q-Baseball is incredibly out of sync with the rest of the world.

A-And this is breaking news? The entire entertainment industry is and always has been out of sync with the rest of the world when it comes to finances. You can’t expect a business that generates over 5 billion dollars a year to be in touch with the normal common working person. Is it fair that the average salary for teachers, policeman, fireman is under 90,000 a year? That the MINIMUM salary in MLB is near 400K a year? No it’s not, but what does that mean? Should I feel guilty that the Lord blessed me with a right arm that works differently than just about every other human on the planet? Not only that but I had the fortune of being raised by parents that were good people and taught me the difference between right and wrong early in my life. I’m lucky, blessed and incredibly fortunate to have been able to experience what I have over the course of my life, but not because of the paychecks I can assure you. The people and experiences I’ve met and lived through over the last 21 years are the prize in all this, not the money. Oh I won’t deny that the money is incredible, because it has allowed us to do things for ourselves, and for others that we otherwise could not have done. But my paycheck didn’t stop my wife from getting cancer, it doesn’t stop my children from being sick, it doesn’t make being away from my family easier or funner.

Q-The real world philosophy is don’t bore me with what you have done, but tell me what you are going to do and do it.

A-People get paid for what they are supposed to do, and what they’ve done, not what they tell you they are going to do, otherwise everyone would be millionaires because who’d take a job and tell you “I’m going to suck at this so pay me accordingly”?

Q-It is not your fault baseball is so out of touch with reality, but the average fan doesn’t really connect with the player’s salaries and demands.

A-Why should they? Why should they want to? Do you connect with the movie star that gets 20 million dollars to have you sit through 2 hours of pure agony? Do you ‘connect’ with that? I don’t want you to connect to my salary or ‘demands’, if there was anything I really wanted it would be for people to understand that we are not all that different than the rest of the world off the field. We live the same lives in a lot of cases. Now you can certainly make arguments against that and find news stories to back your arguments up, but I would tell you that we’re more alike than people would have you believe.

Q-What’s the launch date for your game at 38 Studios?

A-I can’t give that date here, but let’s say it’s much more than 2 years from now.

Q-There are no better fans to play in front of than “Sox Nation!” Therefore, why is it necessary that you be paid $15 million dollars to stay in ‘08?

A-It’s not.

Q-Surely you don’t need the money, especially with a potentially bright future in your endevours post-retirement.

A-Not really sure that’s for you to decide but ok, we can go with that if it works.

Q-That leaves “ego” as the reason why you wouldn’t be willing to stay for less.

A- I can’t respond to this part since it plays out an argument that is wrong to begin with. I never asked for 15 million per year. Q-In other words, you’re as good if not better than “Joe Blow” who’s making $18 million so why should I not make at least what he makes?

A-I’d like you to find a quote, anywhere, in the last 15 years, from me, that said anything even remotely close to this.

Q-It’s this type of thinking that has driven salaries through the roof and has left me and my family unable to attend games because we can no longer afford it.

A-Not true.

Q-Let me be clear – I am in no way accusing you of being one of these ballplayers, yet I think if you do leave and go elsewhere for $15 million or more, that’s exactly what it will look like. Don’t you agree?

A-No. If I am not in Boston next year it is because they will choose to not resign me prior to this season for 13 million dollars, or I will enter free agency and they will choose to not seriously pursue resigning me.

Q-Why not set a presedent and make a statement by signing for less and staying with the team you obviously want to pitch for? Wake has done this, and Trotty has as well ( and look where that got him, but that’s another story).

A-Why would I sign for less than I needed to? I know that me signing for the amount discussed was not something that would hinder the Red Sox from completing the roster in a manner that would give us a great chance to win another World Series. The number is a number they are not comfortable committing to someone in my place right now, and that’s ok. Both sides, by not pursuing it further right now, are taking a gamble, I think me more so than them, but either way both sides are comfortable where they are right now and the team is moving along just fine without this muddying the waters. Q-Maybe you can explain to myself and others why this is NOT a good way to go out. It would still be on your terms, and “Sox Nation” would see that you’re more than just a nice guy that enjoys communicating with your fans.

A-So if I do not go to them and offer to take a deal for less than my current salary that makes me something else in your eyes? If I had to worry about that I’d be introducing an entirely new set of concerns into the issue.

Q-You’d be a hero that truly meant what he said when he claimed that he wanted to finish his carreer in Boston.

A-I’d disagree. In this town, much like NY, you’re only a “hero” when you do something, and even then that can die a quick death (see Keith Foulke). This town is about achievement. Sox fans, in my opinion, could care less about the contractual crap that goes on as long as it doesn’t affect the on the field product in a negative way. They get the fact that money isn’t endless, and that spending smart is the real way to create a dynasty.

Q-Do comparable salaries come up in salary negotiations? For instance, would you compare yourself to Gil Meche to make the point that you deserve significantly more than $13 million?

A-Absolutely not. The analogy I would give you is that I know where I ‘fit’ from a contract standpoint. Since 1997 I’ve been comfortable with where I thought I fit. I knew the post 1996 season market was going to be a big one, however I loved Philadelphia and thought that things were going to change. I thought the franchise was going to shift it’s philosophy and things would be different, so I negotiated a deal at around 6m per year. 24 million over 4 was a fantastic contract in my head. That winter Kevin Brown signed for 100+ million. Was I bitter? Hell no, I had guaranteed my family a lifetime of security. I did snicker a little bit AFTER the 1997 season, given what happened that year and how I felt I did, but no, I don’t compare the way you might think a player would.I would also tell you that I am sure some guys do, and more power to them if they do. The game made over 5 billion dollars last year, I have zero problems with players getting as much as they can. I think the problem becomes when players who get the maximum dollar try to present their case as something other than what it actually is.

Q-What do you use for stats in negotiations? What do they use?

A-Stats don’t really enter into my negotiations, at least for my last 2 contracts they haven’t. Stats play a huge role in arbitration, since they are basically the only evidence allowed. Stats play a smaller role in free agency with the exception of Scott Boras’ clients. From what I’ve read and seen the stuff that Scott creates for his clients is astoundingly in depth and convincing. Some agents use them to an enormous advantage.

Q-But are we ever gonna get any MMO posts on this thing? A-Absolutely. As 38 Studios progresses and I get the ‘ok’ to talk more I will. Right now there is an immense amount of detail about the IP that has to remain behind closed doors. As that changes you can expect a lot more discussions about the company and what we are doing.

Q-1) I do see the yanks would be out of the question but who would be your top team choices to play for in 08(the Red Sox are the obvious choice)? A-I won’t go into detail for a lot of reasons. But suffice it to say that if it ends up not being Boston we’ll end up in a place with a team that we are comfortable with and that will have a chance to win it all.Q-2) If you could have a ‘Super’ Team who would be in your lineup?

A- Fun one. Starting 9 with a DH, and SP, from todays players? No payroll limit?

C-Jason Varitek – As good a handler of pitching staffs as anyone I’ve ever been around, coach or player. Not to mention he brings value in the clubhouse as well. I have heard Joe Mauer is this same kind of presence, but he brings some pretty incredible offensive tools that no other catcher in the game possesses. I’ll stick with what I know though and that makes Tek an easy choice.

1B- Albert Pujols – There are some other great ones here, Morneau is a stud, Helton, Ryan Howard. I love Lyle Overbay as well. But Albert is doing things no ones ever done, ever, and when you are doing things that have never been done in a game that’s over 100 years old, that’s something.

2B-Chase Utley- I don’t know a lot about him defensively but his production at a position that doesn’t have a lot of power is huge. If I had to pick this based on defense I’d go with Orlando Hudson hands down.

3B-Scott Rolen-Personal bias here since I had the good fortune of being his teammate. Along with Junior Spivey he’s the best athlete I’ve ever played with. Opening day in 1997, 9th innning, 1 run game, Brett Butler hits a spinning chopper over the 3rd base bag, Scott, running to his right, backhands the ball, falling into foul territory, spins and throws sidearm, perfect chest high strike on the bag. Still one of the better plays I’ve ever seen. Not to mention the guy runs the bases to perfection.

SS-Derek Jeter-Lots of good choices here but Derek may be the only guy in the game that you’d not be able to find someone that had something negative to say. He’s money on the games biggest stage and an often overlooked fact is that he plays every single day. Tejada is another one. He brings an immense amount of energy to the field and he plays to win. For pure defense I’d pick Alex Gonzalez with no one even a close second. I will argue until I die that he’s the best defensive shortstop that ever played. I still think he played the best defensive season in the games history last year. Chuck the range charts or whatever ‘scientific’ method is used, this guy was a stud from pitch one until the end of the season.

LF-Jason Bay-I think he’s a stud. Unfortunately he’s almost invisible in Pittsburgh. I don’t know much about him other than the few times I’ve faced him but he has put up some incredible numbers and I thought he was a pretty good defensive player as well. If it were pure offense I’d pick Manny hands down, twice on Sunday. Manny is still the best pure hitter I’ve ever played with. Matsui is, in my opinion, horrifically underrated as a run producer. The Yankee lineup is drastically different when he’s not in it.

CF-Andruw Jones-I’d pick him just to watch him shag during BP. He’s so incredibly gifted it’s unfair. I had a chance to get to know him when we were on the MLB team that toured Japan after the 1997 season and I was blown away at what a nice and respectful young kid he was, and he was a kid. Didn’t he hit 2 HR in a world series game when he was like 15?

RF-Vladimir Guerrero-Most plate coverage in the game. Can hit a ball a foot off the outside corner down the RF line and deep. Cannon for an arm. The funny thing about Vlad is that if you watch him doing something other than running or hitting he looks like he’s got a broken back. He limps around right up to the point where he beats you. Ichiro would be another great choice, incredible athlete. Bobby Abreu, JD Drew are both in for big years as well I think. Both can run, throw and grind out AB’s.

DH-Who else? David Ortiz-I think he’s in the midst of one of the better offense runs in baseball history. Though I think you could argue that Travis Hafner is every bit as good or at least getting there. Hafner continues to amaze me with his ability to manage the strike zone. He’ll chase every now and then but most times, against me anyway, he chases ‘good’ bad balls. He chases in areas he’s looking, as opposed to guys that chase just because they are swinging.

SP-Johan Santana-True legit ace. To me the earmark of an ace is innings. I think it’s far and away a SP most important stat. If you’re good, and you compile innings, the other numbers all take care of themselves. He’s dominant and he carries that to the mound with his presence. There are others I’d be more than ok with as well. Brandon Webb, Roy Oswalt, Ben Sheets, Josh, John Lackey, healthy Pedro, Carpenter, Halladay, Rich Harden, Sabathia, Verlander, Bonderman. True #1’s are guys who, if you don’t win on the day they start, everyone is stunned, I think every one of these guys brings that in spades. The guy that even on a bad day is going to get you through the 6th inning. That’s what I think about Halladay everytime he pitches.

Q-3) Honestly speaking when is Jacoby Ellsbury moving up in your eyes? I really enjoyed watching him play at OSU and not knocking
Coco but he hasn’t produced like I really thought he would of.

A-I have no idea. Obviously foot speed is not an issue but I don’t know enough about maturing as an offensive player to answer this one honestly. The few times I spoke with him this spring I realized he’s a good kid and driven to be a great player.

Q-For games when you are not on the mound do you watch the batters and try to pick up on things or do you just relax and enjoy the game. A-Depends on who’s pitching. If it’s a guy like Josh, or Daisuke, or Paps then ya I will watch the hitter and how they react to pitches. Same with watching games on TV when we are on the road. I’ll tune in to a game that has a power RH pitching. Otherwise ya, if I am not in the video room watching some stuff for an upcoming game I am most likely doing something I shouldn’t be to someone I shouldn’t be doing it to.

Q-On your days off this year you may enjoy Mass Effect from Bioware. Coming out relatively soon.

A- I will say this. I don’t know much about Mass Effect but I am a HUGE fan of Bioware. They are a top notch company of what seems to be incredibly talented and passionate people.

Q-You’re delusional if you think the Yankees would pay you $20 million! Are you completely out of your mind?

A-No, because they won’t offer it nor will I ask for it. But thanks for asking.

Q-If you’re sincere that you really want to stay in Boston, you should be happy to re-sign with the Sox now at a discount, instead of holding out for the “better all around offer.”

A- Appreciate the expert advice.

Q-After all, since you’re so sure your company will be a “multi-billion dollar behemoth” (give me a break), your 2008 salary is irrelevant, right?

A-Right.

Q-In your negotiations, did Theo & Co. ever propose a smaller guaranteed salary accompanied by a set of reachable incentives (something like Boomer’s last two deals)? Given their legitimate concerns about your age, it seems to me that’s one way for them to mitigate their substantial risk. If they did, did you give it due consideration, or were you firm in your desire for a simple guaranteed extension at your current salary? Were you willing to make any concessions to assuage their concerns?

A-I think it would be safe to assume that we explored a wide variety of ways to structure a 2008 contract.

Q-When you decided to extend your career by another year (or more), were you partly motivated by the need for capital for your startup venture? I’ve read that 38Studios is still actively seeking capital (talking with potential investors, etc.). It certainly takes an awful lot of money to create a company like 38Studios from scratch, and I was just wondering if the chance to self-fund a larger part of the startup and initial operating costs and seek fewer investment dollars was in the back of your mind when you decided to continue playing (and earning).

A-No. 38 Studios was started and is funded by me. We have the luxurious advantage of keeping it that way until we retain partners that can offer us more than money. We are looking to find strategic partnerships as opposed to check writers. That being said the money from a 2008 contract was a nice potential ‘perk’ for 38 Studios as opposed to a motivating factor in me coming back for another year. The only factors that were included in the decision had to do with my desire to continue competing and Shonda and the kids decision that they were ok with me coming back for at least one more year.

Q-If the Red Sox asked you to play for the league minimum next year, would you sign with them.

A-No.

Q-1. Where do you think The Rocket will pitch in 2007 (if at all)? And how much would it mean to you if he came to Boston?

A-No clue. I haven’t spoken to him about it and most likely won’t. I’d love for it to be here but as of today this 5 man rotation is set. I think, like any other team in this league, that if our rotation stays healthy we can win it all.

Q-2. From my perspective, I think this year’s rotation looks like it is going to be the best one in the majors. Do you agree? I have no doubt that Daisuke will adapt quickly and that J.P. will make the transition successfully. I expect Beckett to have a more consistent year than last year (less long balls), and I never doubt that you are going to have a solid season, even if you are 40. I’m not too sure who the 5th starter will be,
Wakefield? Lester? Either way, I’d be surprised if the top 4 starters didn’t combine for 60 wins.

A-I agree on the perspective. I am assuming that based on what’s happened so far Wake will slot into the 5 hole and Jon will continue to regain his strength. The perfect scenario for the team would be that we all make every one of our starts. That would mean Jon would have to squeeze into the bullpen to get here, but that’s the perfect world. In the real world we’ll probably need some help and the thought of having a kid who’s as good as he is as insurance is something not many teams anywhere can claim.

Q-3. How do you think Varitek will fare this year, coming off some nagging injuries and an off year for him offensively?

A-Tek looks unreal. He feels fantastic which is all I care about. If he’s healthy and his body allows him to do what he can I think we can expect a ‘Tek like season. He’ll hit his 20-30 HR, handle the pitching staff incredibly well and be a major force for us on and off the field all year.

Q-do players, when negotiating contracts, ever consider other players?For example, you’re asking a team for X amount of money, and the team says ‘OK, we’ll give you that but we’ll have to get rid of 3 other guys to afford it.’Would that enter into it at all?
Or is it simply every man for himself?

A- I can only answer that as it pertains to me. It was absolutely something that was talked about in 2003 when I was in discussions with
Boston. They spoke at length about their needs for my AAV and contract length and how that coincided with their plans for other players. It was also something I was very aware of since I didn’t want to get into a position that had my contract negatively impacting the potential of the team. I knew that the numbers I was at, or around, we’re not going to impede their desire or discussions with other players.

Q-As I am on my umpteenth business excursion this year which no one here cares about, it has prompted me to ask, when making the decision to come back in 2008, how does the fact that you’ll be away from your family for another 135 days (counting spring training and the playoffs) in 2008 factor into that decision. Is your family conditioned to this fact as being “par for the course” or normal because it’s the way it’s always been? How do you reconcile the fact you’re going to miss out another year of family and friends’ weddings, baptisms, birthdays, etc.

A-It’s a massive part of the decision we made. In fact next to my physical situation it was the most important part of the decision. I jokingly stated that when the decision was made I realized that maybe I’m not all that fun to be around at home if they were that excited about me playing another season. The difference now is that our kids are getting to the age that I can take them on the road with me individually at times, and that’s huge. It’s one of the parts of this life people either don’t care about or don’t think of when they think what we do is the greatest. I won’t lie, this job doesn’t suck. It’s a dream come true in many aspects but there is always a price to pay and often times the price is paid not by the athlete, but by the people you care about most.

Q-CURT, PLEASE GIVE US ALL A BREAK! IF YOU UNDERSTAND WHY THE RED SOX DON’T WANT TO EXTEND YOUR CONTRACT BEFORE THE END OF SPRING TRAINING, THEN WHY ARE YOU CLOSING THE DOOR DURING THE SEASON FOR AN EXTENTION?

A-I thought we covered this already, or maybe you didn’t read the previous post? Either way no need to yell….

Q-BECAUSE YOUR A MODERN DAY ATHLETE THAT THINKS THE WORLD REVOLVES AROUND YOU.

A-Ok….

Q-TELL YOUR AGENT WHAT YOU WANT, YOU ALREADY SAID YOUR NOT LOOKING FOR MORE MONEY, AND LET THE AGENT NEGOTIATE WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT.

A-I don’t have an agent.

Q-BUT THAT WOULD MAKE TOO MUCH SENSE, IN THE END YOU WANT THE CONTROL BECAUSE THIS IS 2007 AND THAT IS WHAT ATHLETES DO.

A-Hmm, ok. So Williams and Dimaggio weren’t doing the same thing when they held out? I played the requisite 6 years I was required to play to obtain the rights of a free agent. In a career where the average lifespan of a player is less than three years, that means something. I’ve earned the right to negotiate on even footing and it’s not something players take lightly.

Q- I CAN’T HAVE IT MY MAY SO I’M NOT GOING TO TALK TO YOU. YOU CAN FLOWER IT UP ALL YOU WANT BUT THE BOTTOM LINE IS YOUR NO DIFFERENT THEN MOST ATHLETES. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MONEY AND YOUR HUGE EGO.

A-If that’s what you need to believe to feel better about yourself that’s cool.

Q-ATHLETES IN GENERAL AND TOP ATHLETES SPECIFICALLY HAVE BEEN TOLD HOW WONDERFUL THEY ARE SINCE THEY WERE OLD ENOUGH TO REMEMBER. JUST THINK CURT, YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE IN THE REAL WORLD. HOW DOES THAT FEEL?

A-Not sure of what you are asking, but I can’t complain. Life has been incredible to me and I thank the Lord everyday at some point.

Q-I was also one of the crazy, screaming fans when you made your first appearance as a closer against the Yanks. I don’t think I’ve ever heard a game that loud. And, even though you didn’t succeed, it took some brass cajones to do what you did. I’ve been a huge fan of yours ever since.

A-I remember that. Jogging on to the field was one of the more memorable experiences I’ve ever had. Right up to the point that
Sheffield and Arod played ping pong with the Monster and Center Field Bleachers and I lost the game. That was one of those ‘more incredible than you can imagine experiences” right up to the point when I actually threw a pitch. I was under the impression I was going to job out, punch out the side and walk off the hero, then real life intervened.

Q-Are you still doing research, etc. with Multiman Publishing? Still playing Squad Leader?

A- I am not. I haven’t been involved day to day with MMP for some time now. (BTW if you are a WWII or Wargamer please check out www.multimanpublishing.com ) Brian and Perry have been doing the yeoman’s share of the work for years now and MMP is doing fantastic.

Q-On Pearl Harbor day (Dec 7) I went from being a healthy 63 year old professional with a successful life stretching before me, to a 63 year old patient with metastatic cancer of the tonsil. My perspective on the future changed in the space of one hour. So far I am doing ok, but believe me , this season is the only one I have an interest in now.

A-I don’t need to tell you that Shonda and I are praying for your recovery. In a much different way that’s exactly what happened when I received the phone call telling me my wife had cancer. Life as you know it changes, forever. Shonda and I had 11 years of living and befriending ALS patients to know we didn’t want to wait for an event like this to truly have perspective. Please drop in and let me know how things are going if you can.

Q-What do you think of Gabe Kapler’s venture into managing? Aside from you, Gabe is my favorite Red Sox member. He speaks so eloquently on many subjects and always has something interesitng and insightful to say. I think that his innate understanding of the “right” way to play and his ability to understand the psyche of young players will serve him well as a manager. I wish for his success and hope that one day he manages the Sox. Any thoughts??

A-Awesome question. I am planning on throwing up a blog about favorite teammates somewhere down the line and Gabe is definitely at the top of that list. In addition to being one of my favorite teammates he’s also one of the finest human beings I’ve ever met. His wife is an incredible person as well. Gabe will manage in the major leagues someday if he wants to. I stopped by the minor league complex the other day to check in on him and say hello and tell him how much we miss him and all I can say is that he’s in his element. Gabe loves making people feel good about themselves, he loves baseball and I think he’s captured that magical feeling of what It means to teach people. I can promise you that the players he manages will be better people in addition to being better players.

Q-Also, do your children like to watch games more when you pitch or when you don’t pitch?? What do they experience as your children during a game when you pitch? Are they nervous, excited?

A-My oldest son Gehrig, has, over the last two years, become incredibly involved in my starts. I always talk to him before starts and he usually gives me advice.

“Dad, watch out for Guerrero, he can crush the fastball”

Things like that. One of the coolest life experiences I’ve ever had was a few years back. I’d pitched a game and stunk it up. I was incredibly upset after the game and we were riding home from the park and he says to me;

“What’s the matter?”

“I stunk tonight, just disappointed in the game”

“Dad?”

“Ya?”

“Did you do everything you could to win?”

“I did, but that doesn’t always work here bud”

“But dad you told me that if I played as hard as I could, did everything I could to win, that was all that mattered to you”

…………..

What could I say? Taught a lesson in 5 seconds by my 11 year old son. Those are the things you take with you for life.

Q-If you wanted the Sox to sign you then why not show up at camp remotely in shape? If you look like you do now then what will you look like at next years spring training? You could pull it off when you were younger, but those times are past by.

A-I’d love to refute it all but I can’t. Now don’t misunderstand that. I was heavier than I should have been when I reported, by at least 8 pounds. But I was not ‘out of shape.” I’d been throwing per my off season program since day 1 and my arm felt great. That being said I allowed some real life stuff to intrude and I didn’t prioritize my time the two weeks prior to camp as I should have. However, as of today I am down 9 pounds and 2 pounds under my end of the season weight from 2006. I feel fantastic. I have worked my ass off to get to where I need to be and I feel awesome that I am where I am. The last time I felt this light was coming into 2004. The amazing thing about both years is that my weight doesn’t match the way I feel. I made that mistake, but I won’t make it again.

Q-Hi Mr. Shilling I am a die hard Red Sox fan and at times I go on message boards and there are always yankee fans that just dont get it. GET THIS. They say that in the 2004 playoffs on your socks was not blood but ketchup. Now I know it sounds stuiped but these yanks fans are idiots. Can you say something to that and please enlighten me?

A-I am planning to throw something up about this subject at some point, but needless to say it was blood, my blood, and it was coming from the sutures in my ankle. You’re either stupid or bitter if you think otherwise.

Q-here’s my question, By now, I’m reply 100 some odd… do you, honestly, read every single comment, I just spent 20 minutes reading some, and gave up…

A-I don’t. I just make sure there are no “f’ bombs or other stuff that I wouldn’t want my kids to read. Otherwise the stuff gets posted in the comments.

Q-also, what about the dipR%@ who use the comment forum as a way to insult/berate/name call… Although, lets be honest, you can afford to not care what some whiny jealous brats with nothing better to do complain about…

A-Hey I’m human. No one likes to be called names or talked down to, but the sooner you realize it happens and that the people doing so have no idea who or what you are, the easier it becomes. I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my life, said a lot of things I wish I hadn’t, but at the end of the day I have to live with myself and I know I don’t wish bad things on anyone. I lost the ability to hate anyone or anything when I became a Christian, life’s too short to waste time hating anything. There are only 24 hours in a day and as of now I’m busy for most of them.

Q-1. You’ve said that you feel your newly developed changeup could be a dominating pitch for you at times. Forgive me for being a little skeptical, but for your entire career your bread and butter has been the fastball and the splitter. Ive always felt that the split was your ‘change of pace’ pitch that got batters knees buckling, and for that reason it would be unnecessary for you to use a changeup. It shows them a change in velocity and that last second unexpected movement. When the count is 2-2 with a runner on 3rd with a tie game, and you and tek dont think a fastball is gonna get it done, i dont see him calling for anything but the split. Is the changeup just kind of an insurance policy for days when your splitter might not be quite as effective? What kind of counts and situations do you see yourself using your changeup, and why would you use that over the splitter?

A- I can’t/won’t get into specifics about selection of pitches here, not now anyway. Let’s just say the overall strategy is to reduce my pitch count and get outs faster, and the change up will allow both of those to happen.

Q-2. You also said that your change is about 15mph slower than your fastball, and that is an ideal difference in velocity. Do you think you could share this wisdom with Josh Beckett? His fastball is normally a blazing 96-97mph but his change is usually around 89-90. A 6mph difference doesnt seem like it does much to fool batters, rather it just gives them more chance to catch up to the pitch. Last year his changeup was largely ineffective and usually got crushed. Is this something that Farrell and Josh are working on or do they think that with alittle more control his current style will be effective?

A-Josh is a different animal. Josh has power in spades. Would it be ideal if he could throw a change up at 80mph? Maybe. Having said that Josh is, and always will be about command. If and when he gains total command of his fastball he’s going to dominate. I will tell you it’s coming too. Regardless of what people write about his Curveball or his Change up, like every other pitcher on the planet he will live and flourish on his fastball command. He’s gotten better this spring and I’ve already stated earlier I think he’s going to ruin a lot of fantasy leagues this year for people that pass on him. He’s getting ready to take that next step and I think this year it’s going to start happening.

Q-Also… can you teach Josh the split??? Look what it did for Papelbon!! A-He already throws it. He threw it last year and started to have a pretty effective one towards the end of the season.

Q-1) You posted about “depth” in your pitches… and I’ve seen or heard this term used by scouts/GM’s etc. Could you give a quick definition of this for us layman?

A-Depth, to me, is a word that could be called ‘tilt’ as well. A slider that breaks right to left on a horizontal plane, has no depth. A slider that breaks right to left AND down has depth. The ability to get movement horizontally AND vertically is depth. Same thing with a sinker. If my sinker cuts in on RHH AND goes down, it has depth, otherwise it’s merely a left handed cutter.

Q-2) What makes a pitcher successful at the major league level? I know this is a fairly broad question, but what were the things you figured out after you had been in the league for a few years? The two major things I can think of are command and movement, but what are the things we may not know about? A-The ability to repeat a consistent energy efficient delivery 125 times every five days. The other is command. There is a difference in ‘command’ and ‘control’. Control is the ability to throw strikes, You need to learn that in A, or AA. Command is the ability to control the ball WITHIN the strike zone. Most people think home plate is 17 inches wide. It’s not. Home plate, for me, is 12 inches wide. 6 inches on the inner half, 6 inches on the outer half. Using the middle 5 inches is the easiest way to get a ticket to Pawtucket. I think that’s the hardest thing for young pitchers to grasp, The big leagues is not about throwing strikes, it’s about throwing quality strikes. Learn that and then you move on to ‘throwing strikes that aren’t strikes’, which is a whole other lesson.

Q-1. What incentive would “the media” have to distort the truth on an issue like this? (not much)

A-Really? I’d disagree. I’ll ask you this. Does something news worthy happen everyday in your life? It doesn’t in ours either. However the media has to talk and write every single day, whether there is news worthy material or not. So ya, some distortion or omission of relevant material is necessary to make something ‘worth’ writing on some days.

Q-2. What incentive would a player in this situation have for distorting the truth to bend public opinion to his side? (make a lot of money)

A-Huh? So by lying I am going to make more money? How exactly does that work?

Q-Players say things like “the media sucks” because they know you like them better than you like the media, and that helps them get their message out unfiltered. But sometimes it makes sense to take a step back remember by the filter was there in the first place. It’s for the benefit of the readers.

A-We can agree to disagree. I happen to think the media has gotten to the point of talking down to fans. While we are on this topic let me once again say that this is not the majority, far from it, there are a ton of good people in the media, but the bad eggs can really screw things up for the people who actually do take pride in what they do and aren’t actually interested in being part of the stories they write.

Q-Without “the media,” players, teams, government officials can lie to you whenever they want, for their own benefit.

A-So you are saying that the media keeps people honest? I think I’d agree and disagree with that.

Q-My question: I feel your faith and honesty would allow me to ask this tricky one. It is in regards to baseball being “entertainment” primarily, and always referred to as entertainment by the players and anyone involved in the game and by all means I do not intend this to be insulting or to call the integrity of the sport into question. Nor do I mean to say it’s anything like Pro Wrestling Is there ever a script? or some sort of baseball etiquette that is improvised during the course of a game or series? For example, a team / manager / player has to make a decision to ease up on another team, let another team have more of a chance to win or in an important series take into question that ratings matter and if the series were to extend for more games everyone has more fun? or is what you see, the total reality??

A-No.

Q-Felger was ripping you, your blog and those of us who like to get the scoop from you without his and his buddies’ filtering last night on TV.

A-Who?

Q-What are your thoughts on the media now using your blog as a way to get more information from you? I have seen many shows bring up your blog and your thoughts either the day you make a new post or the day after.

A-If it means the story gets printed and I don’t have to talk then all the better.

Q-Would you prefer that they get their information in person?

A-I think that’s going to be more story dependant really. I can tell you that the post game stuff this year will be interesting. I would imagine I’ll be able to give a more thorough in depth review and discussion of the games I pitch than the main stream media, for those that are interested in that kind of thing.

Q-Curt, with the new defense behind you with Lugo, and Pedroia being the starters at SS and 2nd base. How do you feel this defense behind you stacks up with last year and Gonzalez and Loretta?

A-I think they’ll be fine. I certainly don’t think they will cost us games. I think Dustin has a chance to be an outstanding defender. One of the things Coach Murphy (Dustin’s coach at ASU) told me a few years back was that Dustin was the kind of defender that if ‘he gets his glove on it, it’s an out”. I think Julio will be a lot better than people think. The main problem will be that anytime he makes an error the ghost of Gonzalez will come up in post game interviews. I think Alex Gonzalez is the best SS I’ve ever played with, or seen, so those comparisons are unfair to anyone.

I’m a bit of a uniform numbers guy. I’m just curious as to how the process works in terms of getting a specific number and how you settled on your number of 38. I noticed that, early in your career with Baltimore, you had number 43. You then had number 19 with Houston. I know rookies are issued less-than-desirable numbers in Spring Training, but do veterans basically get their choice of numbers if a number is not taken?

Again, it’s a great blog, and keep up the stellar work, both on and off the field.

Sorry for the second post so quickly…my first post was in response to your main comment.

This one is in response to all the idiotic questions regarding your salary and negotiations. I can’t believe that people are sodim witted that they think you should take less money than you can earn. Who in their right mind would do that, regardless of the job?

A few questions, but first a comment: I think it’s great that you’ve decided to interact with your fans in this way. I’ll admit I haven’t followed your career as much as I could have, but as an avid baseball watcher I’ve definitely noticed you progressing from team to team, and pitching better and better with each stop. Thank you for giving us a forum in which to interact with you.

My queries:

1) Do you type all of your entries, or dictate them?

2) You faith and political views are well-publicized. You don’t strike me as a particularly intolerant person (except when people ask you 38 times a day, “Why don’t you take less money now to stay?”), but I wonder how someone who believes strongly in Jesus as the Messiah interacts with players like Gabe Kapler, Kevin Youkilis, Adam Stern, Shawn Green, and other players who are Jewish. Is there any tension? Is it just not a topic that is discussed? How about Mulsim players, or those who are openly politically Left-leaning? I’m just wondering.

3) I’ve lived in Boston all my life, but am an A’s fan (long story) first, then a Sox fan. What do you think of the A’s as a team? Who would you count among your friends from the current club?

Thanks again, Curt. Keep up the great work, and good luck this season!
– JoshSamBob

First, sorry for all the jerks who insist on arguing with you and commenting on your salary negotiations. It’s none of their business. The same as it’s nobody’s business how much money I make. (I am in the entertainment business)

My question is about Josh Beckett. You have said, and I have read from other sources, that Tek is one of the best catchers in the game as far as calling games. I read a comment where Josh said he wished he had listened to Tek more last year (again, don’t know how true that is or if it was taken out of context). Is there any way to influence Josh to trust Tek more this season? I think he has the capabilities to be a great pitcher.

If you had to rank the top 10 pitches you’ve ever seen while you played, what do you think they’d be? I don’t mean specific instances of the pitch, just the pitch the way a certain player threw it (like Mo Rivera’s cutter or Pedro’s changeup).

And I have to say this blog is a lot more levelheaded and reasonable than I’d given you credit for in the past.

Just wondering about your thoughts on peoples opinion that Jason Varitek is on the back end of his career. Many have brought up his offensive numbers, but isn’t his ability to lead the pitching staff an intangible?

Curt, I simply can’t believe the amount of people that responded to your contract situation. One, they probably never even read your post, which by the way explained things prefectly. Two, they haven’t a clue how life (or business) works. I for one will be perfectly happy with whatever decision you make on your status. I am, and have always been, a Red Sox fan, but I realize that this is YOUR life. Please don’t let the “bad apples”of Red Sox Nation get you down, there are plenty of people who think as I do.

Now to my question: If you had to start a team tomorrow, what position would you start with? And who would it be (one past and one present).

Curt,
Honest question. Has the current situation in Iraq caused you to reevaluate your support for our current president? If not, how come? Thanks for taking questions. Its an interesting read for baseball fans. It would be nice if there was less talk about your contract situation, but if thats what folks are interested in…

Hey Curt, your blog is awesome. This is a two part question. The first involves the titanium necklaces. Could you explain why you wear it/ when you began to wear it and the history behind it? Do you have any anecdotes, like convincing other players to wear it? I normally only see pitchers wearing it, do would you know why?

The second involves the upcoming Presidential race. As far as favorites, who are you leaning towards the most? When will we see you run for President… Schilling in ’16 or ’20 ?

My mother was very upset when she noticed that J.D. Drew had been awarded Trot Nixon’s old jersey number, “7”. She felt that it was the final indignity in a string of insults to our favorite Sox player (we even named our new puppy after him last season!).

What is the feeling about this in the clubhouse, both about Trot’s departure and the number’s reassignment?

Hi! I know many have said it before (including me in a comment to a previous post), but I don’t think it can be said too many times – THANK YOU. Thank you for taking the time to answer so many questions, for all you have done for the Sox & for Red Sox Nation, and for all you do for the ALS Foundation.

I now have a new thank you (and a question) – I think you might be the first athlete I have ever seen to publicly acknowledge the disparity in what a professional athlete makes vs. what a teacher/firefighter/police officer makes. THANK YOU! As a teacher, I see so many students who look up to athletes and see them as role models. How hard do you think it is to be a positive role model for kids, in addition to your actual job as a starting pitcher? Is being a role model part of the job? Should it be? How do you handle seeing so many athletes that kids look up to being really poor role models? (drugs, guns, dui, gangs…the list seems endless)

Thanks again for truly giving kids someone to look up to!

Mara (who is keeping her fingers crossed that you will be pitching when we see the Sox play in April in Baltimore!)

I’m thankful and impressed that you answered so many of our questions (I think almost every one that was asked). Hate to flood you with questions but I cant pass up the opportunity to pick your brain!

1. I think its cool that you took the time to pick up some Japanese during the offseason so you could interact with our new pitchers Dice-K and Okajima. How much japanese have you learned and how easily can you interact with them? I heard Tek also learned a little Japanese, how has this helped their assimilation into the team and how are they fitting into the clubhouse so far?

2. I recently got into an argument with a friend of mine about athletes and retirement, and I figured you would have a unique perspective on the issue. The argument focused around Tiki Barber. My friend said that he admires Tiki for ‘going out on top’ and that he would probably do the same if he were a superstar athlete. I said that I admire the gamers, the ones that love competition and love the game so much that they will play as long as they possibly can. Guys like you and Tedy Bruschi, who had won championships and were injured. You returned from your ankle injury and he returned from his stroke because it means that much to you. Everything lined up perfectly for both you and him to retire, and no one would have blamed you if you did. But you guys keep playing, and for that I’ll always admire you. What do you think of Tiki’s decision, or other players who choose to do the same? Have you ever thought of retiring earlier in your career and ‘going out on top’?

It seems like some people want something, they get it and than they try to tear it down.
This is a pretty great way to hear you apart from the media’s version of who they think you are.
I love what you have to say, it gives those of hope you believe in reality and what’s true and what isn’t.

Thanks for sharing your views on this blog. As a lifelong Red Sox fan, first let me join the millions and say “Thanks” for all you did to bring a World Championship to Boston in 2004 and even more so since you essentially sacrificed 2005 to deliver the goods in ALCS Game 6 vs. NYY and WS Game 2 vs. St. Louis.

Three questions:

1. Do you or any of your fellow teammates from the 2004 Championship team ever get tired of fans thanking you or do you realize how much that meant to the fans?

(By the way, I agree with you that players like Foulke and Bellhorn got the shaft from some of the “fans.” As a season ticket holder since 1996 and a fan since I was a kid in the early 80’s, it bothered me when the bandwagon jumpers (fans since ’03) had no appreciation for the contributions of Foulke and Bellhorn. It’s now clear that Foulkie sacrificed ’05 and ’06 when he pitched in ALCS Games 4,5, and 6 on consecutive days- you don’t win without him. I always hoped he’d regain his form. Now that he’s retired, I hope the organization can bring him back and honor him for a day so that he can get the appreciation he deserves!)

2. While everyone will miss Gonzo’s D at SS, was he really that much better than Orlando Cabrera? I always thought one of Theo’s biggest mistakes was trying to upgrade from OC to Renteria at SS. Yes, Renteria should’ve been better, but the slight upgrade over OC (who thrived in Boston) wasn’t worth the risk (Reneria not being able to handle playing in Boston). I say any dropoff in D from Gonzo to OC (and I think it’s minimal) is far outweighed by OC’s offense and his ability to perform in the playoffs.

3. While your disappointment at the Sox not extending you so far is understandable, are you at least happy to hear Theo say that if you have a solid 2007, he’s confident they’ll be able to bring you back and have you finish your career in Boston? While some view this as presumptuous on the Sox’s part, I view it as a sign of the good relationship they have with you and that the Sox won’t let money get in the way of you staying here.

As a fan who has watched many great Sox players finish their careers elsewhere (Clemens, Pedro, Boggs), here’s hoping you end that trend and finish in Boston where you belong. Fans will never forget the Bloody Sock and to me, you and Big Papi will always be the face of that unforgettable 2004 team! Let’s not have to see either of you in any other uniform.

Hey Curt. Love the blog, and love the work you do on the field as well. And again, as you’ve heard numerous times, thanks for your part in 2004.

I have to say, as a fan of the game itself, and as a fan of great pitching, there is nothing better in baseball than watching a great pitcher work at the top of his game. Even before you were members of the Red Sox, two of my favorite games of all time were Game 7 of the 2001 WS between you and Roger, and Josh Beckett’s performance in Game 6 in New York in ’03. (Of course, it helps that both games were against the Yankees)

Just one question….

I don’t think alot of people realize the HUGE disparity in talent between Joe Schmo, and even the “worst” professional out there. Even the difference in talent between the average fan and a .230 hitting, backup shortstop at Double-A is immense.

My question is, at what point did you “know” that you had that talent? Not so much the ability to win 20 games, or strike out 300, but when you really had a good idea that you had a legitimate future as a pro athlete?

Schill, I love you dearly, but you are soooo way off on the teacher’s salary bit. I have taught first grade for 15 years and am making less than $30,000. I wish it was even half of $90,000! Granted I am teaching at a Catholic school which pays much less than public schools, but… yeah. However, one day I WILL save up enough to make it to a Red Sox game and hope to see you there! :o)

1. What was your favorite team growing up and do you still “root” for them (except, of course, when playing them)? I have always wondered, especially in the free agency era, how players maintain their love for their hometown team or if they simply “lose it” over time.

2. I am sure you have played for many managers over the years. What in your mind is needed to be a successful manager? Is the most important part of a manager’s job is figuring out when to use the bullpen?

3. What is the typical schedule you have during the season leading up to a start? I hear bits and pieces all the time (such as, pitcher x threw on the side today), but I never really heard about what preparation is needed between each start.

4. How often does the pitching staff and Tek meet together to go over things? Do you bounce around ideas on how to get player Y out or is it more general information as a group and specific information between you/Tek?

Curt, I greatly respect you. At first when you got here I was a little turned off by your outspokeness, but that was a rush to judgement because I was hearing what you were saying but not listening. I think you have done great things for the community and you seem like a great dad and family man. I have to also say I agree with your politics and would like to know what if any your future political aspirations might be. I would love to see you run for senator in MA, because we certainly don’t have respectable ones now and think you would make some great changes. Curt I think your awesome and by the way think it was a no brainer for the red sox to re-up you for another year. But hey that’s how it goes.

I have a question about your communication with Daisuke. How are you able to talk to him? I remember him saying that he was taking English lessons, but that takes a long time. I don’t mean any offense to him by this (I certainly do not know any Japanese!) but I am interested to know how he casually communicates with you or others on the team, besides Okajima.

Curt:
Checking in from Virginia, waiting for Opening Day (16 and counting) and MLB Extra Innings so I can track my Sox…survived breast cancer in 2002 and 2006 on a regimen of chemo, grit and Red Sox.

My wish for 2007? A World Series again, of course, but first and foremost is that you all let your love of the game and your sportsmanship take center stage. Give kids something to shoot for besides $$$$ and trash talk. I’ve been coaching women at the college level since 1968, and the sooner we get back to playing instead of talking, the better off we’ll be on and off the field.

And about the contract. You’ve said it all and said it enough. Tell everyone to give it a rest and let’s play ball.

Jiminy, Curt! Do you have to warm up and throw a bullpen before sitting down to a 10-inning Q&A session like that one?!

‘Preciate the insight, but man … that could only come from a guy who’s currently living on the road & ordering room service!

(or, like me, sitting in NH, where we just got 10 of the heaviest inches of snow we’ve seen in a long time.)

I don’t want to pile on w/another question, but I do have a topic I’d love to see you address sometime.

Youth sports. What works & what still needs work?

You’ve played baseball forever, and now you’re a dad. No doubt your kids are involved in sports at various levels. I’d love to hear some of your thoughts on the do’s and don’ts of introducing young kids to sports.

My youngest child will be 6 on April 12 (one of his gifts from me is attending your game at Fenway that afternoon), and he’s nuts about sports — football, soccer, basketball, baseball. He’ll play anything, anytime, and he seems to both have fun and excel. I want to encourage him & help him reach his potential — in everything — but I don’t want to become overbearing or suck the fun out of it for him.

Hi Curt I have some questions about teammates (no in in particular). One thing that really bugs me when we as fans say oh “he’s a great guy, or he’s a bad guy, based on what players do on the field. When we really don’t know you guys at all. With that preamble, which do you find more annoying/aggravating when fans think a guy is a great guy and you KNOW he is a jerk, or when fans think a guy is a jerk and you know what a great guy he is? Now for part two, if the Sox front office came to you and said they could trade for player ‘X’ and you knew this guy could really help the team, but you also knew who was a really bad guy and a lousy teammate would you still want them to make the trade, and how would you react once he got here, if they did make the trade?

Y’know, I haven’t had the chance to mention this to a Sox player before, so …

I spend a fair amount of time on the road for business, and I found myself visiting a certain NYC hotel last fall (I won’t divulge the name for fear of compromising your team’s privacy). I was speaking at an event, and before it started I chatted up the A/V guy who was supporting me. He found out I was a Sox fan, and he told me “This is the hotel the Sox have stayed in ever since they beat the Yankees in 2004! In fact, we like to think it was our beds that gave them the rest they needed to beat the Yankees in Games 6 & 7!”

Whether he was telling me the truth or just blowing smoke, who knows?

I just thought you’d get a kick out of knowing that even a New York hotel is trying to bask in the glory of what your team accomplished in 2004!

Mr. Schilling, Thanks for taking the time to answer so many of my questions. I think I know what you mean now when things don’t come-off in the press the way they were said at the time. When you answered some of my questions individually, it made it seem that I was knocking you for not taking less money to stay with the Sox. I think you understood I wasn’t, but some responders who did not read my original post seem to have thought so. To clear it up, allow me to explain it like this: My present job is great, I love working there, the location, the people, etc…The hospital that’s out-of-state wants to pay me much more money to go work for them, but it’s in the middle of a bad city and the environment seems much less fun to work in. Do I go take the money or stay where I know I love the people and the job? Basically this is what I was asking you. Obviously you’d be foolish to stay with Boston for anything less than what you think you’re worth. Yet I think where you play and the people you play in front of has to play a big part in making such a decision. Bottom line is this, Curt – Whether it be $2 million or $50 million, I want you back in ’08!! Thanks for listening. Eric Davenport – Meriden, CT

I applaud the way you handled the, shall we say, more snarky comments people felt the need to leave for you. Something that really bothers me is seeing people treat one another with complete disrespect. It seems as though that gets amplified when one of people is something of a public figure. It comes across that some people feel they are entitled to treat you harshly because your paycheck is not that of “the average guy,” and that is not something I can identify with. I wish I understood why some people feel that just because you are a well-known professional athlete, they no longer need to treat you like a human being, with respect, consideration, and some compassion. Interaction between people should be treated as a privilege & an opportunity to get to know a little more about another person, regardless of who either of the people involved in said duscussion are. People are people, and deserve to be treated with the consideration we expect to receive ourselves. Another case of the few bad eggs surfacing among the good ones. I sincerely hope this sort of attitude doesn’t turn you off from blogging. Speaking for myself, I truly enjoy the chance to to hear the thoughts & opinions of someone who is willing to share a perspective most of us will never have on the game of baseball, and the chance to see who Curt Schilling is when he’s not in uniform, playing a mean game of ball.

“Otherwise ya, if I am not in the video room watching some stuff for an upcoming game I am most likely doing something I shouldn’t be to someone I shouldn’t be doing it to.”

Curt: If you’d like a low-tech solution to your formatting problem, just use Notepad (provided you’re on a PC, of course). It eliminates all the wonky formatting and weird line breaks, and it can be pasted right into the rich text editor when you’re done.

You know, I kept promising myself I’d stop reading so many blogs, and then here you come with one, and how am I supposed to keep that promise now? Everything you’ve written so far has made for an engaging read, and I always get overly excited when I discover you’ve updated. Thanks for being open, honest, and entertaining. And please keep it up.

Hi Curt Schilling do you sign autographs when the regular season starts and when would you sign a autograph like at a game on june 20TH against the Atlanta Braves in Atlanta GA? Do you like to wear the green hat and the green uniform on St. Patrick’s Day? I hope you and your family have a great Easter!!!!!!!. You are my hero Curt and I look up to you. I got some great photos that I took of you when I was at spring training camp. Can I send some to you? Take care.

Curt: Thanks for your kind reply to my post regarding my Pearl Harbor day shock. Since I live in Nebraska, I plan to be in KC to watch you open the season. God willing, I’ll be able to taste a hot dog by then.

Hey Shilling,
I appreciate you taking the time to write these posts. I know it takes a lot of time out of your own busy schedule and cotinue to keep this up (even if some people treat you like a dog). For everyone else, anyone can take something a person says and make it look like they are saying whatever they want it to say. I have a friend in AAA who just started a page like this and is already thinking of stopping because people blow everything out of proportion.

I believe that it is not the players who have made themselves look selfish, i believe it is the media. Anyways, a question for Shilling. I hear you talk of how the Lord has helped you and continues to help you make decisions. Has the money and fame made it a struggle to keep a strong faith in the Lord? also, how do you believe your faith in the Lord has helped you to get you where you are today?

Thanks for your time, and i truely appreciate hearing your coments. Keep it up.

Q-I understand that a major part of your pitching preparation is in writing detailed notes about your experiences and observations in your notebooks and referring to those notes in later pitching encounters with the opposing team. I was watching your recent interview on NESN and noted how you pointed out how you still have notebooks from the last ten years. Do you plan on creating a personal archive of those pitching notes or donating those notebooks to a library or museum long after you have retired (like 20-30 years after you retire)? I am sure those players you write notes on will have also retired or will be entirely different from the players they once were. I ask because your notebooks seem to be a major component in your pitching preparation and I think would be really nice for researchers and other baseball experts to get some insight into your pitching twenty to thirty years after you retire.

Oops. Looks like my comment didn’t completely publish. Let me try to recapture the missing part as best I can…

“Otherwise ya, if I am not in the video room watching some stuff for an upcoming game I am most likely doing something I shouldn’t be to someone I shouldn’t be doing it to.” — I’m going to have to remember not to be drinking a beverage when I’m reading your blog if you’re going to keep coming out with stuff like that. Oh & the next time a camera zooms in on you & you’re in the bullpen looking all innocent, like you’re just watching the game, we’re going to know that when the camera goes elsewhere, you’re going to go right back to “doing something you shouldn’t be doing.” Or plotting your next move. The question is, will you be sharing your best jokes & pranks or whatever it is you’re up to out there, here on your blog? ;-)

Curt, I noticed that you think the DirectTV deal signed last week “sucks”. A number of us baseball fans and civic organizations are forming a coalition as well as a petition to send to the FCC asking them to investigate the deal as like you said, it will be leaving millions of very loyal fans in the dark and unable to watch baseball. While you reside in Medfield, and your family has the ability to have NESN, I am sure many players families, just like many of the fans, rely on having the ability to purchase the Extra Innings package on cable. I would be honored if you would be willing to sign your name to our coalition and join us in preventing America’s pastime from becoming America’s past.

Don’t sweat the people who give you a hard time over contracts. There will always be a lot of people jealous of the success of others. They don’t understand that it isn’t your fault the games are expensive, it’s because people come to those games even though they are expensive, so the game makes a lot of money that you’re able to sign those big contracts. That’s capitalism, and it’s fair. You don’t deserve the crap they give you. It’s even more irksome to me, as a fan of a small market team (Minnesota) that Boston fans get all that angry about paying for players when they can spend a lot more than my team can.

Anyways, on to actual questions(feel free to parse them down as a couple are longer-ish):

1. I said I was from Minnesota, and I’m about as big a fan and spectator-student of the sport as you’re likely to meet anywhere, but a lot of the people around me (in Minnesota) aren’t like that. What do you think of Minnesota sports and fans in general?

2. Sorry if you’ve already answered this, but what pitchers, if any, did you watch and even try to emulate when you were younger?

3. What do you think about how NEw York fans treat A-Rod? Here’s a guy who has been a huge hitter his whole career, was an MVP just two years ago for them, but they treat him awful and act like he can’t hit “in the clutch.” What’s even funnier is the numbers don’t say that (they say’s he’s just a good hitter in “the clutch” as the rest of the time). I think his “bad” season last year (still one of the best in the game) was in large part because the New York media and fans were such jerks. What do you think about that and stuff like that?

4. Speaking of clutch, how much do you believe in that? Statistics sometimes say that very few people actually are more clutch than others (for example, the numbers show that Jeter is the same hitter in the playoffs as the rest of the time, which is still a very good hitter who’s a very tough out and knows how to situationally hit). Do you believe in a magical clutch? Do you think maybe some people just “choke” more than improve in the clutch? Is it an emotional thing (like players trying to hard to get a big hit or pitchers getting to emotional and overthrowing)? What’s your take on that?

5. Last, phew, what do you think of stats like VORP (if you’re familiar with it). Do you think it seems to convoluted? It wouldn’t really help you much as a pitcher, but it can be a good way to give a snapshot of someone’s overall production (I think). Perhaps these are more stats for analysts. You have talked about using things like hitters pitches per at bat, umpire’s stats, etc. So what are some other stats that you use and what to they tell you, and what do you think about some of the more complicated new-age type stats?

Sorry about all the question, but I love your site so much. I spend so much time talking about and learning about baseball with other fans that it feels like I found a new Gold Mine of knowledge in this site. Not tom mention there is the high from conversing digitally with one of the game’s top players, who happens to be a committed family man, active philanthropist, overall role model, AND lover of one of my favorite things (video games) to boot.

So thanks again SO much for doing this, because it’s just about the coolest thing ever.

Let’s get to the real meat and potato’s who’s in your final four? I’m guessing Pitt is one of them.

Just want to reiterate the common theme of how cool this is that we can interact directly with you. I haven’t posted since one of the first days, but I did want to let you know that your story of Vuk was amazing. The sad thing is that until we can cure cancer there are way too many of us that can tell a similar story.

Curt, I want to join the legions who are thanking you for taking the time to do this blog and address our questions and comments, no matter how stupid or pointless they get. I hope you won’t find yourself overwhelmed by everything everyone asks; I’d hate to see you badgered off the boards.

I just want to wish you and the team the best of luck for 2007, to thank you for all you’ve given to Boston and to baseball, and to let you know that, like your son, we truly appreciate you giving it all you can.

I am a Cubs fan who is in awe of your dedication. I have asked a total of two questions, and you have answered both very graciously. Thank you. I just wish some of our guys(CHC) would do somthing like this. Could you imagine Sosa doing a Q and A with fans. Funny stuff, I’m sure. Anyway.

Question.

Who, in your opinion is the most deserving player to have been “snubbed” for the HOF? i.e. Jim Rice, Ron Santo, Andre Dawson etc…..

Hi Curt,
In “categories”, I think you should start a forum on politics. You are a sports hero here on a Larry Bird level and it is fun to see an outspoken athlete on issues which you care. That being said, we do not agree on “stuff”. Instead of just hearing you talk through the media with your point of view, why not let it fly on a part of your blog? Maybe we could all learn a different perspective?

Anyway, thanks again for making Red Sox Nation proud. You’re a good man. (my wife is leftist, but she still loves you.)

Great read. Thanks for your authenticity and honesty about the game that we love and your experiences. As a youth pastor I’d love to hear more about your faith journey if that’s a possibility on this blog.

Let me tell ya Curt your a man of great integrity and I love to watch you pitch every single start. I have been debating whose number to get on the back of my Sox jersey and even if you end up leaving I will be proud to wear yours.

I recently wrote a blog entry on my site pointing people towards your blog so I hope anyone that comes will see the things that I see that make you one of my role models.

God bless you and your family, you guys are constantly in my prayers.
In Christ
Justin

Kudos to you for taking the time to respond to everyone’s questions and comments, both the favorable and the critical. I can’t say I agree with all your points, as most of your fawning fans seem to, but I’ll admit a grudging respect for what you’re doing here, and I applaud you for some of your acknowledgements. (C’mon, I’m a Yankees fan, this is hard for me)

I wonder if you’d comment on a non-baseball related topic that’s been bothering me for years–your vocal support for George Bush during election season last time around. Certainly, it’s a free country and everyone is legally entitled to his/her opinion and also to express that opinion. Indeed, if you had simply attended rallies and/or talked to your friends or teammates or neighbors about why you supported Bush, I’d have had no problem with it.

But I think it was distasteful and inappropriate the way you used your celebrity to conspicuously support a political candidate. It would have been different if, like Bono or Leonardo Dicaprio, you were actively involved in political issues–those guys have leveraged their celebrity to become vocal and genuine activists for causes they believe strongly in, so naturally they will speak out for political candidates who support those causes. But you can’t claim any such substance or activism, and you weren’t even making an argument about issues–you simply tried to influence the election by translating your celebrity into votes.

When journalists, organizations, or political figures endorse a candidate, their opinions are noteworthy because of the relevant expertise they claim to have. You however, had no such expertise, and you had a platform (TV) to influence millions of voters simply because you can throw a baseball well. Does that seem right to you? Do you think your celebrity qualifies you to have more influence on the election than Mr. Average Joe has? I don’t. Frankly, I think it’s pathetic that so many Americans put such little thought into their participation in the democratic process that they might be influenced by something as arbitrary and irrelevant as who a millionaire baseball player supports, but sadly that’s the country we live in, and you probably did have some impact.

If you had engaged in political debate and attempted to sway other voters’ opinions by virtue of reasoned argument, then I wouldn’t be giving you a hard time right now. But instead, all you did was take advantage of some Americans’ stupidity, by trying to steal their votes with nothing but your fame. I know you’re not the only celebrity who did it, but I still think it was classless and that you ought to be ashamed of yourself for it.

As an aside, I wonder if you have taken the time to meet any of the thousands of servicemen/women who have been injured in Iraq, or the families of those who have senselessly lost their lives? Do their stories give you cause to regret your ostentatious support for Bush, who has undoubtedly proven to be the worst President in the history of our great nation? Was your tax cut really worth it?

This blog is unbelievable… a fan’s dream. Thanks for doing this and giving us insights into the game we’d never have otherwise. Oh yeah, and while I’m at it, thanks for a million other things too, like coming to Boston and breaking the curse and winning a World Series! Hoping like hell to see you retire in a Red Sox uniform!!!

okay, now a question… I’ve heard you have a dog named “Patton”. Patton is an extraordinary figure in history and a highly controversial one in his day. Care to share your thoughts about him? (the General I mean… but you can tell us about your dog too if you want. ;)

Curt, I’m loving your blog. It’s so refreshing to read a very unique viewpoint about the Sox, the media, and the fans. Thanks so much for putting the time into this blog. Now, onto my questions:

1) You obviously are extremely articulate. Did you study writing or communication in college, or are you just a natural writer?

2) I’m interested to know what you do on your time off during the winter, that has nothing to do with baseball. Do you have hobbies we don’t know about? TV shows you’re addicted to? Music you dance to in your living room? Do you cook? Do you clean? What kind of person are you when you’re just hanging out at home?

3) Do you find it difficult to make friends outside of the baseball world? I ask because we live near Tek, and I know that most of his friends aren’t neighborhood types. Is it tough to just hang out with boring regular folks that aren’t financially able to keep up with your family?

4) Finally, are all your kids interested in sports, and is it OK if they are not? Are you a parent that encourages interests outside of sports, even if they are things you’re not interested in at all? Like ballet, for example? (Not that it isn’t possible that you love ballet, but you know what I mean…) Are your kids good students and are they thriving in the public schools in Medfield?

Just wondering about the guy behind the uniform. Thanks again for such a fun read.

Sadly those who just see huge numbers when discussing athlete (or even movie star) contracts just don’t seem to grasp that the scale of revenue most major league teams generate is a staggering sum. If the players weren’t making a share of it, the owners would just be even more wealthy is the only difference.

I do agree that ballpark tickets for MLB and NFL are becoming too expensive for the average fan to just go to a game on a whim. What can really be done about that?

-Frax (just a poster from the fohguild.org forums and the green monster game thread!)

My grandfather was born in Massachussetts in 1918, and died in the beginning of 2004, before you guys won the series. He was the ultimate Red Sox fan, throughout the 86 years without a pennant. To me, it’s in the blood. My interest started in 1987 when I was 13 collecting baseball cards, and my favorite player then was Wade Boggs, until he went to the yankees (that I think is when my “dislike” for the spankees started). I already have my 2 kids rooting for the Sox (ages 9 and 3).

Who was your favorite team growing up, and how did you get your very first interest in baseball?

*Ted Williams was the greatest all-around player of all-time, hands down*

Curt-
wow.
just wow.
the length, and depth, of that post astounds me.
as a Sox fan, and a Schilling fan (yes, I’m both), this is heaven.

thank you.

2 philosophical questions, if you don’t mind:
a) are there times you deviate from the scouting report?
for example, the report says Batter X can really hit the fastball.
yet the fastball is also your best chance to get the guy out.
do you still throw it, knowing that’s HIS strength as well as yours, or would you go another way?

b) one thing that always bugs me is when I read or hear a media member talk about how things are in the clubhouse, or whether a player is a “good” clubhouse guy or a “bad” clubhouse guy.
first of all, I don’t have any idea what that means.
I also think they’re not qualified to judge that kind of thing.
And even if they were, I’m not sure it matters much once you guys are between the white lines.

Just wanted to be another one who supports your contract point of view. Some people think getting paid what you are worth or wanting to be is a bad thing, and say it like they wouldn’t.

Signing for minimum wage.. some people..

Also good work for creating the blog. Its nice to create a direct link for fans to talk to the players directly and vice versa. I just watched your interview on NESN, and agree completely with your comments about your blog.

I had a question about how you view a starting rotation and this one as a team. Obviously you guys are never actually playing in the same game, but need to work together. Does having these young guys in the rotation (Beckett, Papelbon, Matsuzaka) help the not so young? I think I read somewhere about the friendly competition you and Josh had last year for most wins, do you think it will be better this year adding Matsuzaka and Papelbon?

Fantastic job on the blog. I really cannot thank you enough for everything you have done and keep doing on the field – and for finding the time to give us fans this awesome means to communicate with you.
Since you’re being so gracious in answering all the questions, I’ll just toss mine in the pile. I’d like to learn more about your video gaming tastes; how long have you been a gamer? Are you mainly a PC/multiplayer guy or do you also enjoy some classic action/adventure/console games? What are you favorite games of all time? And, last but not least – where do you find the time to support an MMORPG addiction with your job? Thanks, and keep up the good work. Looking forward to a spectacular 2007, good luck on that too!

I am shocked that there were people who didn’t realize that the Media Sucks…gotcha wasn’t a joke. Those people should just stay off this blog site as they are obviously not fans of yours. I hope that you are sitting back getting a laugh out of these ‘outraged’ fans and not letting it raise your blood pressure. Your true fans know you and love you so please don’t shut down this blog keep typing away. Can’t wait to see you at the NYY and Toronto games in April, I will be the screaming southern chick from Virginia in the bleacher seats, tell Big Papi to knock one outta the park for me :) Keep up your awesome work on this blog site and good luck in all of your games.

Hey Curt I heard about this on the Mike & Mike show on ESPNRadio. This is really great. My friend has a blog and he mentioned your blog and he also mentioned all the good work you do for ALS. If you ever have a chance to check out his blog at http://www.menudo-myblog.blogspot.com he would really appreciate it. Thanx and GO SOX!!!!

As a Phillies fan, I have fond memories of 1993 and specifically your amazing post-season performance. However, over the years, information that has come out suggests that a fairly sizable segment of the roster was dabbling in performance enhancing substances. Dykstra and Incaviglia were obvious examples, but there were no doubt others. The Braves implied as much, but that unwritten baseball “code” prohibitted them from specific allegations. Oh well, hopefully that era of baseball is coming to an end…

After reading all this I have to believe most of those questions came from members of the media posing as ‘fans’. They can’t beat you up in person thanks to this blog, so now they’re going at you this way. Ridiculous.

You’re a good sport for putting up with it, Curt.

And anyone who didn’t ‘get it’ must have missed the very first line of that post “gotcha!”.

If I may, Curt, I’d like to strongly suggest that you go back to answering questions by paraphrasing what is asked. By answering questions in the manner utilized in this entry, you are coming off with a far more prickly personality than is necessary. You don’t need to respond to these people, and it doesn’t make you look good to pick apart their posts and make snide comments. No one cares what the comments say or ask, or if some Yankee fan or Schilling hater makes a stupid comment. Its beneath you, and not worth your time. I thought that this blog was for you to communicate with the fans. Its worked very well to date, but I may start skipping your Q&As if it is mostly going to be a bitch-fest between you and people whose opinions don’t matter.

I’m not one of those fan’s who has a problem with what athlete’s/entertainers make. In fact I think that athlete’s should probably make more and owners less. I know that if I was one of a handful of individuals in the world that could perform a job at the highest level whether it be (heart surgeon, film star, starting pitcher, software designer, etc, etc.) that I would want to be paid accordingly.

Unfortunately, people are jealous and bitter and somehow try to compare the value of a job like police officer, fire fighter, teacher to being an athlete in terms of “contributions to society” instead of looking at how much money that individual brings in for their respective markets. I’m sure that you generate more income for the red sox, baseball, and the economy in general than the 13 million you’re seeking. Look at all the jersey sales, ticket sales when you pitch, how many people are tuning in to see you pitch every fifth day and how many are buying products they see commercials for when their watching your games?

The other thing people miss is there is a small window of time for you to do your job (granted 20 years is pretty solid) but the avg is somewhere around 3 years………what if that were true for other professions?

People don’t like to admit that they just aren’t as gifted as others and thus are unable to be objective in situations like this. The funniest part of the who “players make too much money” debate is that the same people bitc#ing about it (fans) are the same ones who created and perpetuate the proverbial problem.

Don’t like it? Stop watching, buying and supporting. Still love it? Shut up and enjoy the greatest sports era in the history of time.

Again Curt, I want you to reconsider the yanks. I will donate 1/3 of my yearly 35K salary (about 12k) to you if you sign with the yanks…..if everyone in ny gives $1 to you that’s about $26 million….all you need to do in exchange is pitch 4-5 times during the regular season against only Boston and then help us bring the world series trophy back to NY by dominating in the playoffs and WS. how’s that sound?

NY wants you curt and they want to love you. What better way to get back at your rival than to start dating thier ex? you’d look good in pinstripes, could stay in MASS (not much of a commute), and you could get #38 put up in monument park………

While I respect your opinion on Alex gonzalez and there is no disputing his year defensively last season, I’m not sure how you put him so clearly head and shoulders above someone like Omar Vizquel? or an Ozzie Smith?

the only player in your dream team of current players that I’d swap out would be Bay for Ichiro, (I know he’s not a left fielder) but you can’t argue with his 110 runs 40+ SB’s .330 avg and a sheer cannon for an arm……..ichiro jones and vlad would be the greatest defensive OF ever assembled.

Now for an even tougher question. What’s your batting order? and who’s your closer? give me the guy you want coming off the bench to PH in a clutch spot in the WS in an NL park when the pitchers spot comes up?

I am an avid WEEI listener and newcomer to your blog. I think it’s great to get a personal perspective from you on everything that goes on in MLB.

I really get a laugh out ot the way some people think about pro athletes and their performance and salaries. It’s painfully obvious that some people are just plain bitter and are probably underperforming in their own lives. What better way to deal with their own personal inadequacies than to lash out at someone who is publicly successful.

I don’t know anyone who would work in their chosen profession for less than they are worth. There is no such thing as a ceiling on salaries as everything is relative to the company you work for and the industry you’re in. Anyone who is competitive, ambitious and takes pride in what they do and how well they do it wants to be compensated accordingly. You just happen to work in an industry that has a higher payscale than most others (not all!).

In closing, I am hooked on this site and look forward to my daily dose of baseball reality from your perspective and being a participant as well.

FYI-you and I have a mutual acquaintance (not one that I and I’m sure you think about fondly at all!)

Thanks for allowing us this forum here and I love the fact that we can hear the truth from you.
Just a few questions. I apologize if some are repeats…( I just joined the blog)… Does Spring Training get tougher since you have crossed the line into the big 4-0 (Happy belated B-day)….or with all the technology and training programs that are available is Spring Training and the season ahead the same for you???
What is your take on the pen and the emergence of a closer???? will it come from within or does the team have a better shot of going with a bullpen by commitee until the trading deadline?
Would you change your mind (which you are more than entitled to do) and retire if the Sox won another championship this year so that you would go out on top????
Good Luck and stay healthy….
BTW did you get my girl’s invite to you for my 40th birthday party at the Black Rose???? (11/14/66). Shame you couldn’t make it

A lot of time spent on discussing your contractual situation, which is fine. IMHO, put up the season you know you can and it will be a no brainer for Theo, et al…

Okay, second request for you to address Bonds coming to Boston.

I’d asked before what your opinion was on facing him. Would your plan be to get after him, or offer first? Also, I asked about your opinion on manager’s, if you thought they’d issue IBB’s, or let their pitcher’s decide. What would you do if Tito asked you to award first to Bonds? Do you think other managers may do the same thing?

Its great to be able to have some iteraction with you on some of these topics. We both know its very rare to communicate with people in the sports and entertainment industries. I want to thank you for taking the time to read and respond to questions, concerns and comments both good and bad. I was woundering if you could describe for me a how you treat you time inbetween starts. As far as pitching on the side and working out. Also the time you and Varitek spend discussing you future match ups, study time etc. Looking forward to reading more. Thanks again and good luck!

Assuming you’ll make it to f/a this year, how many times will it have been for you?

I’m just wondering if the philosophy/strategy changes when you’ve already been a f/a.

Regarding Your comment, “I’ve earned the right to negotiate on even footing and it’s not something players take lightly.”

I would agree that most players do take free agency seriously, and this would obviously hold true more so the first few times you become a free agent, but at what point does a player say “You know it’s not about dragging out negotations this time. I’ve reached the point in my career where it’s about me and my family being happy and if that means giving up top dollar to go elsewhere and not make as much as some other overpaid boob on some other squad, so be it.”

There are some (not many) players in this game who have reached the point in their careers where they actually don’t take the whole negotiating thing as seriously as they perhaps once did, and they just want a contract that puts them in a city that can provide everything that they want. This potentially means not negotiating with other teams, turning down better offers, and instructing their agent on how to get the job done w/ the team they want to play for. This happens every year with players taking less than what they could made if their strategy/thinking was different.

These are the players that fans admire the most because it provides insight into their value system. and what’s truly important to them. And in some respects, it also says a lot about loyalty.

Hi Curt,
I’m not stalking you, but…I am a blogging, approaching-40 RHP, with a build (read: over 6′ with thick legs and a**) and on-the-mound approach sorta like yours, and I am from Philly, I have followed your career and enjoyed your insights here.

I’ll add to the Q: When you throw a pitch for a swinging strike (e.g., fastball in), are you more inclined to immediately come back with a pitch on a different plane (slider or split away to change the eye angle), or more of the same (perhaps pound a fastball a little more in)? What goes into your thought process in making that decision? Swing/stance? Recent trends? Blind faith in Tek?

Also, thanks for the tribute to Vuk. It was touching, and fitting. I wish there were blogs when Whitey Ashburn passed.

For shame, I am also a cricket fan. Adam Gilchrist is a cricketer and one of the best batsmen in the world. This link, which shows one “over”, which means a sequence of six pitches in a row, gives an idea of how good he is (the first couple of deliveries are mundane, but the next few, particularly the last one, give an idea of his timing and hand eye coordination):

There was talk in 2005 of the Red Sox looking to sign him (he stayed playing cricket in the end). First, do you know if this is true? Second, do you think crossovers between sports like that would be possible?

Big fan of yours, and also of Keith Foulke’s. I loved the way you stuck up for him in interviews since he was (in my mind) too classy to point it out and nobody around here seemed to want to be bothered to ask him how he felt, anyway. I don’t know if you and he were friends, but as his teammate, at least, did it ever seem to you as if he knew that at least some Boston fans understood what he’d done and appreciated it? I never had the chance myself to express that to him, but I’d like to think some Boston fans did, just to show that not all of us are in agreement with, say, that guy behind the dugout who heckled him last year. I definitely wish I could’ve given THAT guy a piece of my mind.

My question for you–do you think you might ever become a pitching coach? It seems you like working with the younger guys like Josh and Jonathan and have good advice for them.

Hi Curt, Ditto on the the platitudes for you, the blog, and the team. I have an idea for a blog entry. What if you blogged your thoughts during a spring training game, that you are not pitching in. I think this type of insight from a player during a game would be quite interesting. Maybe some of your teammates could also add their 2 cents
And one more question, what does the term “Manny being Manny” mean to you (your definition)?

CURT YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A LOUDMOUTH.WHY DONT YOU STICK TO BASEBALL AND LEAVE THE MEDIA ALONE. NO WONDER YOUR TEAMATES FROM WHEREVER YOU PLAYED DON’T CARE A WHOLE LOT FOR YOU. THAT REDLIGHT YOU LOVE DOESN’T NEED TO BE ON 24-7. IT AGGRAVATES BASEBALL FANS LIKE MYSELF TO HERE CURT THIS AND CURT THAT. JUST PLAY BASEBALL LIKE YOUR PAYED TO DO. NO WONDER YOU WERE NEVER A YANKEE, YA JUST NEVER HAD WHAT IT TAKES TO WEAR THOSE PINSTRIPES….

About the contract situation, I agree with the Sox decision to “wait-and-see.”
What I have a problem with is the comments people are making regarding the contract situation. Based on your comments, it is clear Boston is where you want to be and I truly believe that is the case. What people don’t understand when you say that the money isn’t the issue is that you still expect a fair offer and fair salary. I have a feeling that if you enter Free Agency and the difference between Boston and another place is only 2 million dollars, or something of that sort, you are more likely to stay in Boston than if the difference were 10 million.

To the guy saying players are the reason ticket prices are so high:
You should really take some classes in economics. Players are only paid what owners are willing to pay them. That is to say, if a guy wants $20 mil a year, the only way he gets it is if someone gives it to him. Salaries are a reflecion of the amount of revenue the player can generate. People want to see Daisuke, so he can be paid more because people will buy shirts with his name on it.

Ticket prices are high becuase there are only 35,000 per game at Fenway, and more than 35,000 people want those tickets. Supply and demand.

There’s lots of chatter about Red Sox interest in Brad Lidge. Of course, as an Astros fan, I’d prefer to see Lidge get “fixed” and stay in Houston.

What do you feel Dave Wallace might be able to do that others havent been able to accomplish over the past year with Lidge? Or do you think expectations are simply too high for Lidge to attain the amazing numbers he had in 2004/2005?

This post doesn’t apply specifically to the entry, but I couldn’t find your email address to send you a general question. Our household is great fans of yours. My son, Timmy, is a huge fan of Tim Wakefield. Matter of fact, Wakefield pitched and won the day he was born! Kind of a turning point game for Wake — August 5, 1996 — as he was struggling for most of the season. But the prior start and the 8/5/96 one changed the direction of his year. Anyway, I say that to inquire about your opinion of Wakefield? He’s had great staying power. And in a way han not gotten his due respect because the knuckleball pitcher seems to be viewed with less respect than the power pitcher and others. What might you expect from him for ’07? Also, could you tell me the best way to contact a Red Sox such as Tim Wakefield, either by mail or email? We haven’t had great success in getting responses back so far. Thanks for being a part of Boston lore. Keep the faith!

1) I posted this once before, but it may have gotten lost in the e-mail storm. Were you aware that, since you’ve been in the AL, the #9 hitters in the batting order have given you more trouble than any other spot (.291 vs. .268 overall)? Only the #3 batters are even close (.285). Do you have any idea why? Do you pitch differently to the bottom of the order?

2) I was surprised to hear you don’t think of yourself as a future HOF’er. If you were to retire today or even at the end of this year, then you’re probably right. But now that you’re committed to pitching at least through 2008, the picture could change dramatically. Traditionally 300 wins was considered the automatic ticket to Cooperstown. But today the standard has to be lower, probably more like 250. In 2 years, barring injury, you should be very close, around 240. Are you saying that that wouldn’t come into play at all in deciding whether to come back for one more year?

Curt first off I think 13 M for 1 season is a steal for any team, what you did in 2004 was priceless and I will ever forget what you did in the playoffs.I have a question ,How big a diffrence mental and physical was being a starter and being a closer?Is it that big of a adjustment?

Thanks for the time to answer all these questions. I really wish more athletes would spend this time.

This question might have aready been answered, but i would like to know how you feel about the commonly refered to as “new-aged” stats. Things like PECOTA projections, Win Shares, VORP, ect.. Do you ever look at web sites like Baseball Prospectus or are you a believe it the traditonal stats like BA or ERA?

Q1: Is a comment at the end of a post the best way to submit quetions?

I greatly prefer reading about behind the scenes stuff as oppoed to ANOTHER contract question….That being said

Q2: I once read that the veterans on the A’s teams of the 90’S would whack people on the head with their WS ring if they fell asleep on a flight less than 3 hours long. Do the Sox have any of these crazy/funny rules for team flights?

Pitch counts are watched intently in modern baseball, and a “quality start” can be as short as six innings. Is this solely a result of teams being careful with their huge investment in pitchers’ arms? Why are pitch counts more restricted than they were decades ago? Matsuzaka’s high pitch counts in Japan have been widely reported and talked about.

Your own 138-pitch game last year received quite a bit of attention as well.

I don’t think you’ve addressed this topic yet, though I could be wrong (I don’t have the patience to read every comment).
Great blog by the way, I’ll be checking on it often.

Since Jonathan Papelbon has hit the big stage, we’ve known you’ve been a big supporter of him being in the starting rotation. He had a tremendous ’06 campaign as the closer and, as we know now, is slated to be the #4 or #5 starter. If the Sox’s efforts to find a replacement fail, would you be for Papelbon going back to the bullpen to save games?

Professional athletes, entertainers and politicians are all overpaid but at least the athletes and entertainers are fun to watch. And, on some level, what you earn and what you choose to do with it, is your own business. One thought I’ve had since watching the Sox is that being away from family and friends for such a large part of the year must be difficult so I was glad to read that you can take your children with you. My question is since you do travel an awful lot, do you ever get to see any part of any of the cities where you play? Or is it just the field and the hotel? Also, what sort of memorabilia collection do you have? I should think it would be awesome since you can probably get autographs and keepsakes from all sorts of players. On that same line of thought, who was the most awe inspiring player you ever got to play with or against? Any heroes that were still playing when you started? Any moments when you looked at the batter and thought – OMG I’m pitching to ______ (you fill in the blank)? And I’d love to read more behind the scenes stuff. Work out gripes and tips. What they feed you. Who keeps those uniforms so bright. What an average day at the park is like for a player. That sort of stuff.
Last thought – sorry you guys on the field can’t listen to Don and Jerry. I love those guys. I went to one game at Fenway and while I enjoyed the experience, I did miss the running commentary. Hey, sometimes they even talk about the game!
Hope you’re having as much fun writing your blog as I am having reading it!

That’s another heck of a post there. You had some great responses and answers for everyone, even the knuckleheads and the haters.

It was surprising that you would have to connect every little dot for people to explain that the “Why the media sucks… Gotcha!” post was a joke.

I also can hardly believe that people didn’t get that you were paraphrasing questions for the sake of conciseness and that you weren’t just interviewing yourself. Wow, pretty amazing.

Again, more great Q&A’s. Thanks for taking the time to share your time and your neurons with us. I’m sure that talking to your family and gaming is probably more enjoyable than explaining to people that don’t get you that you aren’t a selfish, egotistical, money-grubbing spoiled baseball player. I hope that you are paying attention to not only the number of negative posts, but the sheer volume of positive and supportive posts as well. For every critic you have out there, I’d guess you have at least 2 or 3 dozen fans and supporters so don’t sweat the criticism too much. :)

I am still curious as to how much information you and the other Red Sox pitchers share with some of the Red Sox hitters. Do Youkilis, Papi or Willy Mo Pena bounce questions off of you during flights or BP to see if you have tips for them on how you think pitchers might come after them?

Also, your comment about trouble with Word formatting made me wonder who you guys rely on for computer help when you are on the road. I’m sure by now all the guys on the team must travel with laptops, PDA’s and iPod’s. I’ve heard that video iPod’s are especially popular for having a hand-held reference for all at-bats against a particular pitcher or pitchers. Since you are prretty computer savvy do you have teammates asking for help getting their laptops to connect to WiFi or iPod’s to sync or do you have travelling assistants that help with that? I know it’s probably a dumb question but it’s just another one of those things I’ve been curious about.

Also, I read an interview where you talked about wanting to be a fighter pilot when you were a kid in high school. I know that sometimes the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds take VIP’s and selected press members up for demo flights in F/A-18s and F-16s. Have you ever been invited? I bet you’d get the thrill of a lifetime doing that. If not have you considered one of those MiG flight adventurres in Russia where you can fly on an Su-27 or MiG-29 then fly at Mach 3 and fly to the edge of space on a MiG-31? If not how far up or down your post-baseball to-do list is something like that?

Thanks again Curt! You’re the best and you are a hero to lots and lots of people out there. Please keep the insights and the posts coming.

Great job on the blog. Very insightful! I can’t wait for the season to start. Barring injuries, this team has the makings of a World Series Champion. It looks like people are really busting you on the contract issue. Some are getting a little carried away, but I think the overlying reason for this is that they really want you to stay. I the FO changes their tune and makes it happen before the season. I understand your reasoning for not wanting to talk during the season. Q- Would you consider it if they came to you with the $13mil offer at the all-star break?
I’m a longtime Sox and Phillies fan. I was born in Connecticut, but moved to Clearwater at 5 yrs old. I spent many times in old Jack Russel Stadium watching spring games from 1975 as a 10 yr old right up until they switched to Brighthouse. I finally made it to Fenway in 2005 for that final homestand against the Yanks. It was like a religious experience for me. I can’t wait to get back.
Good Luck on the year! I know you and the rest of our starting rotation will lead us to the playoffs and beyond!

In this post you gave some insight as to the greatness of the man Sox Nation calls ‘Tek. Just looking at the splits from last year, the huge increase in team ERA after ‘Tek went down on July 31st reveals how valuable he is to this pitching staff. Of anyone you’ve ever worked with or watched on those thousands of video tapes, have you ever seen another catcher who handles a staff as well as or better than ‘Tek?

DEBPSU2- you represent everything that is wrong with this world. If you don’t like the guy or don’t have anything constructive to say, then leave. You act like you’re forced to read anything that’s been written here.

You’re the same guy who after you struggled through typing that last message, called all your buddies afterwards and said “dude I just ripped Curt Schilling on his blog, man! It was awesome, I really let him have it. I told him what a loud mouth he is and I told him to shut up.” Then you went to bed reaking of stale beer and cheap cigarettes.

And tomorrow you’ll wake up and realize that spewing negativity is all you have in this world because chances are people cannot stand you and those who seem to, probably only do so because they have to.

The simplest thing would be for you to go away, but people like you never do, until restraining orders or the police tell you to. So I’m sure we can look forward to reading more of you jealousy enduced, hate messages.

The world’s not such a bad place once you let go of all that hate and negativity and embrace it. I know the name of a good psychiatrist if you ever need some help.

And this is all coming from a true Yankee fan who understand that it is class and knowledgable fans that make the yankees great not people like you. You’re probably related to the morons who attacked Tom Gamboa in Chicago a few years back….that sounds like it’s right up your alley……..

Great blog. Us die hards really appreciate the fact that you take the time to answer these questions. I’d also like to apologize for the ones that take it too far and annoy with the same questions. I’m hoping to become a member of the media after graduation and a few years paying dues so I can get the opportunity to write my own stuff. Enough of that, I have a couple of questions if you don’t mind answering. 1.) Everyone knows how much information you have on all the hitters. Do any of the pitchers come to you to ask about specific pitch sequences you would make to a hitter? 2.) Most games last year it was always Josh and yourself at the top step of the dugout talking. Who would you consider the most attentive protege so to speak of the current members of the Sox, both Major and Minor League and who did you get the most help from when you first entered the game? Once again thanks for the blogs. It’s nice to get the real deal for a change and not something spiced up by the curly haired wiesel from the Globe. Take care and good luck this season.

“Q-You’d be a hero that truly meant what he said when he claimed that he wanted to finish his carreer in Boston.

A-I’d disagree. In this town, much like NY, you’re only a “hero” when you do something, and even then that can die a quick death (see Keith Foulke). This town is about achievement. Sox fans, in my opinion, could care less about the contractual crap that goes on as long as it doesn’t affect the on the field product in a negative way. They get the fact that money isn’t endless, and that spending smart is the real way to create a dynasty.”

For someone who says so many things about loving these fans and loving baseball….its really depressing to see how little you know about us. Do you remember how upset people were when Bronson Arroyo was traded even after offering to take a home town pay cut? People were seriously pissed at Red Sox management for that one. We’ll cheer when you succeed and we’ll sure as hell jeer you when you don’t, but any Red Sox fan would tell you this: We would PAY money to play in your shoes for just one night. For you to say you want to finish your career in Boston, and in your next breath say that you may end up leaving because you could get paid more somewhere else pains us just as much as giving up a home run to tie the game.

WOW—- If those inquiries about your contract were half as annoying to you as they were to me, then I apologize on behalf of Red Sox Nation. Just play ball!
I would like to share a story with you.
In 2004, I was working production on Fever Pitch. It was a living dream, as I am working hard toward a career in film, and bleed Red Sox. Walking past Gabe Kapler, I felt the need to tell him how much my younger brother and I love his style of play, and root for him with enthusiasm. Mr. Kapler thanked me for my support then asked me to call my brother so he could say hello and thank him. I was shocked at how personable he was, and the fact that he took such an interest to his fans. I wish him the best of luck, and can easily see where you are coming from regarding your earlier remarks.
That week, I also wore a Phillies shirt, and you (jokingly I hope) told me to not talk to you while wearing that shirt. I was too intimidated and busy to talk anyway, but I feel that I can now tell you to calm down!! It was a Billy Wagner shirt. I got it in Philly while attending a game at Citizen’s Bank Park on a road trip with the family. I love the small guys who fire the ball!
I am a huge supporter of this blog, Mr. Shilling. But boy, I cannot wait for these “fans” to ignore the business side and go back to baseball talk.

In defense of Curt! I’m a HUGE Sox fan and sports fan in general and I totally agree that professional athletes salaries are way out of hand. So don’t take this personally………just another way of looking at it.

Take this into consideration ………..if the company you work for now said that they wanted to wait til the end of their fiscal year to see how your performance was before the decided if they wanted to keep you around another year, how would you feel? If they wanted to cut your salary next year because you’re a year older, how would you feel? Looking at these things and then lets say that another company with the same job available offered you more money to go there, what do you really think you would do? And please…….be honest with yourselves here!

Curt, great site. I’ve been a fan of yours since you did that email interview with Bill Simmons a few years ago. Love your candour. A couple of questions for you –
Q – In your routine during starts, how much of a role does sports psychology play? The more I read on this topic, the more it seems that what can set top players in any sport apart from their peers is their mental capacity for success. Your son’s lesson about giving it your best seems to be a great example of this. Any thoughts? Better yet, any mentors on a day-to-day basis?
Q2 – Dealing with media – I am a Maple Leaf hockey fan (probably the closest thing to being a Sox fan in terms of the constant scrutiny our team is under). My problem with the media in our town always has been that they can never get good responses from players because the players know those same journalists will rip them in their publications at the first opportunity or first sign of failure. How much of a role does respect play for you when considering your responses with certain members of the media?

What you are doing here is incredible. I’ve never known of a professional athlete giving this kind of access and this kind of insight. I hope other professional athletes follow your lead. I have a blog of my own, and I know how much time it takes and how much passion. As long as this energy lasts for you to stay up to date, I think it is so valuable. Thanks for that.

2 comments.

1. Where does it say that you have to like the media in your job description? Or that you even have to give them the time of day? I wonder how people would feel if they had to answer to the public for not performing their job the way total strangers expect them to perform. “if you want to be a pro athlete then you have to answer to the media” people say. Really? I didn’t read that in a contract anywhere. I enjoy reading about the sox. But I can’t stand ‘drummed up’ news.

2. I’m always amazed that people who have never played professional baseball or any professional sport can make comments about your negotiations. Let’s be honest, if I had the choice to make 2 million more dollars, I would probably take it. I don’t understand people and their comments.

Question…

I’m a man of faith myself…I’m wondering if you ever take some ‘hits’ for your faith among players or FO?

“Take this into consideration ………..if the company you work for now said that they wanted to wait til the end of their fiscal year to see how your performance was before the decided if they wanted to keep you around another year, how would you feel?”

So whats that, a performance evaluation with the potential of being fired if I can’t complete the requirements of the job? Isn’t that basically at-will employment? Hundreds of thousands of companies operate under these guidelines every day.

“If they wanted to cut your salary next year because you’re a year older, how would you feel?”

If I was no longer able to complete the requirements of the position as a direct result of my age, I would feel it would be justified. I certainly would not be happy about it, but it WOULD be justified. The fact that most companies wouldn’t do this holds no bearing over MLB. In the majors, salary reduction with age is the standard operating procedure.

“Looking at these things and then lets say that another company with the same job available offered you more money to go there, what do you really think you would do? And please…….be honest with yourselves here!”

If I really loved the job, I would stay there, despite making less money, unless the well-being of my family mandated that I choose otherwise. Thats the same argument that allows people to stay in low-paying teaching jobs, work at non-profit organizations for low pay, voulunteer at soup kitchens, etc. If you LOVE what you do, the money isn’t important, its just a bonus.

RED SOX pq- Curt nor any other althete/entertainer owes you anything. He can love the area, love the fans, and still move on because the business side of things makes sense for both parties.

You act like you have that same kind of nobility that you seek from Curt. If another company/agency like the one you work for offered you X amount of Dollars and your company was unwilling to match that number and in fact decided to pay you less, what would you do? I know you’ll say loyalty is more important but here’s a reality check the only loyalty that exsists in sports is that between fan and team and fan and player and even that is a fickle tenuous relationship.

THe reality is that you are not that important and you know it. root for the name on the front of the jersey not the back.

would you feel differently if Curt took an offer of 17 million per for 2 years to pitch for Philly next year, or arizona? But wait shouldn’t he be loyal to those teams? What if he decides to use the extra 3-5 million to actually do something in this world whether it be with his company or his charity organizations should he still stay with the sox then?

If the red sox want him and think he adds value to their club they’ll sign him ……if not he’s gone and he should be. He owes you nothing…….or anyone else for that matter.

What makes this even worse is the guy along with 24 others brought you a world series title after 86 years of agony. Isn’t that enough thanks? The guy has a few more years left to do what he loves and what he’s so gifted at….why not maximize his earnings while he can? I know I know, he’s a millionaire right? He doesn’t need the extra money? So If offered you two winning lotto tickets, 1 for 10 million the other for 20 million, you just gonna piss that away? No way….I’d bet right now you’d drink a gallon of dumpster juice for less than a million bucks. No way you’re passing up more money.

He’d be a fool to do that……….I’m starting my official lobby for you to come to NY Curt………5 starts a year plus playoffs…..that’s it……..18 million……..why not, we’re gonna give roger 13-15 million for half a year……..God it’s good to be a yankee fan!

i want to say that i admire you as a player and a person, regardless of whether you return or not. As much as i hope you stay, if you do leave, i would say no red sox fan has the right to be angry with you; you risked your career and physical health to help bring this team a championship.

Also, as a brother in Christ, i respect you for your public commitment to Christ…he is Lord.

Hi Curt. I just wanted to tell you that I think it’s really admirable that you take the time to posts these blogs and answer as many questions as you can. Time, I’m guessing, is not something that you have a lot of. Although I am a die hard Cardinals fan, I’m an even bigger fan of baseball. I’m a big fan of yours, and I’ve always had the upmost respect for you on and off the field…the two exceptions being when your teams eliminated the Cardinals from the post season haha. I like the fact that you can speak your mind regarding your faith and your conservative political beliefs…2 topics that are, sadly, too taboo to bring up these days.

I know you probably can’t answer any questions about your future free agency, nor is it something you’re probably thinking much about, but I’ll give it a shot anyways. Would you ever consider pitching for the Cardinals? They’re an organization that has put themselves in a position to contend every year. Although you already have 2 rings, I’m assuming that at this point in your career being on a contender is the most important aspect. If it doesn’t work out with the Red Sox at the end of the season, then why not the Cardinals?

If you would like, you could email me your blogs before you post them, I’ll edit them — you know, for grammatical, spelling, and syntax errors — and send them back for you to post. It could help you avoid embarrassing word usage such as “funner.” I think I’ve got the time to handle the job; and I’d work for free.

Let me know if you’re interested. Otherwise, have a great season and I wish you the best of luck in all your endeavors.

Hey Curt, Lets face it. Your getting MLB old. That could be another factor why the Sox don’t want to sign you for 13 million. We don’t know if your arm is the same as it was seasons in the past. Red Sox nation does not want your fastball to be 89 MPH tops (whats it at now 92-94?) For 13 mil. we could get nice prospects. Look what Youk has done. Anyways, dont take this as an insult. I hope you kind of understand what I mean.

It seems that for the most part, we all agree that many htings and people in life are overpriced and overpaid – not just in the world of sports. With that being said, the real question is:

What can we do about it?

How can this trend be reversed when almost everything in society supports this idea – from the athletes, to the actors, to the reality tv shows – the underlying message of everything is money, millionaires, and the need to join the club.

It used to be that being a millionaire was an achievement and enough, but in actuality, that is no longer the case. That is no longer a big enough nest egg on which to raise and support a family of 3 or even 4…

Where do we go from here? While it seems that at some point, we will reach the breaking point, will we ever see an athlete make $30 million per year? Curt, if you know how to unring this bell, I am listening…

My question is about Kyle Snyder. Going back to last year, he had times when he looked really good, but ultimately was inconsistent as a starter. I thought when the sox started talking about an open audition for the closer, his name would have to be a part of that conversation. Yet even after what has been a good spring, he has still not been given any consideration. My questions is as his teammate, what is it that would not make him a strong closer? He has four pitches, two of which I think he throws pretty well, so why in your opinion is he not a part of that group? Is it an issue of makeup?

Actually one more quick question, if Paps is forced back into the closer role, who would you rather see take his spot, Lester or Clemens?

Kudos to you for opening your soul to Red Sox Nation. I find the opportunity to get inside the workings of an ace pitcher’s mind to be particularly fascinating.

Although I live in Texas, I had the opportunity to be present in Boston for your 200th win last year, and was even more impressed the next day when you came out to personally congratulate the servicemen present on the day before Memorial Day.

In addition to being a bigfan, I am also a professional military historian, and would like to know some specifics regarding your father’s military background? I know he was 101st Airborne, but when and where did he serve, and in what capacity. Did he serve in WWII? If so, I may have a few more questions . . .

Love the blog. You don’t see many big shots that take the time to interact with the “Johnny from Burger Kings” in this manner. (and if they do, it’s usually their PR people doing the typing!), so it’s kind of refreshing.
But for the love of god, your response to the Q&A post was longer than the last book I read cover to cover!! Your gonna give yourself carpel tunnel, just make sure it’s not in the throwing hand.

I would like to throw my 2 cents (no pun intended) into the mix. I find it interesting the posts from all of the people that believe that you should take a substantial pay-cut to continue to pitch for Boston next year. Although I agree that the compensation for professional athletes is completely uncomprehensible I find it difficult to take the position that you should be the one to take a stand for the betterment of mankind or perhaps just for Red Sox nation.

The real issue is that as a society we have placed a ridiculous value on people who can memorize lines and stand in front of a camera or who have acquired the skill to throw or hit a baseball better than anyone else. I think that you would agree that it is just “wrong’ that as a society we place a higher value on celebrity (athletes included) than we do on education, if the average pay for a school teacher was $400K per year, I guarantee you that our best and brightest minds would be gravitating towards that field. This is coming from a life-long Sox fan who will pay whatever Mr. Henry decides to charge for an evening at Fenway, but hey it is what capitalism is all about.

I would challenge all of those who are criticizing you for wanting to get paid fair market value to do your job to go into their work today and let their bosses know that they would be willing to continue to work at their company for only 20% of their current pay or even 80% as some have suggested. I don’t care if your Mike the mechanic from Quincy or Ed the executive from Weston, everyone of us attempts to get paid as much as you possibly can from your employer, it is the nature of the beast. I know the posters will argue that it is not the same because Curt makes $13M per year, but that doesn’t matter, that is what a #1 pitcher makes, it is what it is. Would Sully the accountant be willing to only get paid $25K per year because he wants to be fair to the rest of his company, I think not.

It is unfair to target just the professional athlete when CEO compensation is just as bad. Is it wrong when an executive get paids hundreds of millions of dollars when his company is not profitable or he/she earns a wage that is 5,000x the wage of their lowest paid employee. Or how about the fact that the price of oil has dropped by about $20 per barrel but yet I am still paying over $3.00 per gallon out here in California.

Finally, I do believe that you have shown a tremendous amount of loyatly to Red Sox Nation by stating that you will not accept a contract from the Yankees. Although, the Yankees are looking to get younger (no offense, I am older than you) I am sure the George would be willing to pay you to stick it to Larry and the Sox. The people criticizing you are the same idiots that booed Jonny Damon when he returned to Fenway. The Sox did not want to pay him and the Yankees did, it is that simple. Again, would any of your readers agree not to go to work for one of their competitors if their current employer no longer wanted their services. After only 4 years, a bloody sock and a trophy, you don’t owe us a thing, but I will take it.

I think that we need to look at more of the macro issues, again, as a society our value system is not where it should be. If you don’t like it then drop NESN from your cable/satellite package and don’t buy tickets to a game. Otherwise, live with it.

Q: I always wanted to sit behind home plate. Why do the people that sit there waste an enjoyable moment at the park? They talk on a cell phone and wave at the TV when the idiot on the other line says they are on TV. It drives me crazy. Why Curt? WHY?!

At what age did you become a pitcher and know that it was something that you wanted to pursue? Was it in LL, Babe ruth, high School etc???? How much work did you put into it to get to the point of being drafted? Were you always one of the best athletes on your team when you were younger, were you the starting shortstop and hit third? I think many would be interested (at least I would be) in how it all got started baseball wise for you.

Just to let you know, the Red Sox Nation extends into eastern Canada as well. Again, I will echo so many others in saying that I can’t believe how many people feel that they should put their 2 cents in on the salary negotiations. I wonder how they would respond to someone telling them that they don’t need to make $50,000 a year to be an accountant, they should be willing to take $35,000 and be happy about it? Please…

I like the team this year’s lineup, I think it’s will ahve more pop than last year’s (typical sox fan, I know)… I like Pedroia, from what I have read, kid’s got heart. I am also exciting to see how the rotation shapes up and who will comprise the bullpen. My only worry is the whow ill fill the roll of the closer.

My Question, thus, is… Your not Tito or the Front office. .. but what are your thoughts about entering this season with a proven closer? How do you feel about reviving the closer by committee system?

Just to let you know, the Red Sox Nation extends into eastern Canada as well. Again, I will echo so many others in saying that I can’t believe how many people feel that they should put their 2 cents in on the salary negotiations. I wonder how they would respond to someone telling them that they don’t need to make $50,000 a year to be an accountant, they should be willing to take $35,000 and be happy about it? Please…

I like the team this year’s lineup, I think it’s will ahve more pop than last year’s (typical sox fan, I know)… I like Pedroia, from what I have read, kid’s got heart. I am also exciting to see how the rotation shapes up and who will comprise the bullpen. My only worry is the who will fill the roll of the closer.

My Question, thus, is… Your not Tito or the Front office. .. but what are your thoughts about entering this season with a proven closer? How do you feel about reviving the closer by committee system?

I love it that when the radio guys tried to say that a half a million people have found 38 Pitches because of the media, you can say No, they found it online. I myself found the site through bostondirtdogs, just as you say in the interview.

I love your blog and think it’s pretty cool of you to answer those crazy questions about your contract negotiations honestly and openly. It amazes me that people actually expect you to play for nothing just to stay in Boston. Proverbs says ” A worker is worthy of his wages”, and it’s fair for you to get a fair market value, to support your family and provide the best for their future. You give a lot to charity and keep involved in the community. I hope that you stay in Boston., but if not, thanks for your many contributions to the Sox — you won’t be forgotten.

Don’t be discouraged with these wacky comments. Continue to keep your eyes focused on the Lord and remember who you are in Him.

Great to see that you’ve put this blog together. I do hope the negotiations work out with the Red Sox and we’ll see you finish your career in Boston. You have earned the right to spend another year here, and I hope that this current impasse doesn’t lead to your departure.

My fiance and I went to Sox game for our first date back in 2004 and I actually timed it for your turn in the rotation. Since then, we’ve had the opportunity to see you pitch in many more games, and each time you step on the field it’s electric. We Sox fans appreciate what you did for us more than you realize, and I don’t care if you’re missing your right hand, I’ll still come to see you pitch

It’s great having a hero in our midst and I hope everything works out and we have you for a few years to come. Besides, how amazing is it to have a Republican on the team?? Finally!

I saw an interview after the 2004 season in which you said that you prettymuch couldn’t walk the day of one of your starts. It is also well documented the Sox medical staff did some pretty remarkable stuff to help you. What I wanted to know was where did the will come from to take the mound and perform the way you did? I am always inspired by someone facing near impossible odds and overcoming them. You not only made your star, but pitched brilliantly.

This may seem very odd to you; but have you ever been to Bar Harbor Maine. I work for the town and occasionally see celebrities in the resort area. Oddly enough I can’t remember seeing any baseball players, probably because there’s no reason to be here in the winter; the offseason.

Lifelong Phillie fan here. I really wish the Phils would have taken the opportunity to sign you before you went to Boston.

I saw your comment about Carlton and Schmidt being pushed out of the game. With all due respect, I have to disagree. I was fourtanate to see Lefty’s last game in Philly with the Phillies. At that point in time, he clearly had nothing left and he tried to hang on two years after that with ERA’s over 5. Clearly I think he held on too long. Also I found your quote about Schmidt leaving too early a little odd also. I don’t remember hearing anything about that. Do you have an inside story on that?

Good luck in the upcoming year. Thanks for all the charitable work you and Shonda do in the community.

Mr Schilling Thank you for answering my post I know it must of made you mad. It makes me mad everytime a dumb yanks fan trys downgrate your 2004 playoffs. What you did was intense to say the least. I was on the edge of my seat with every pitch and the games that you had with a stiched up angle. Come on Awesome. More players should look at what you did and try to emalate you when its time to play with injuries.But thank you for your time and have a great season… 20-6/3.65……Oh by the way what you did in 2004 that alone should give you the Hall of Fame.. We went 86 years with out winning the world series you come and you gave us one. What does that tell Ya?I know there is a whole team but MAN what you did was Awesome just Awesome… Thank You..

I have been a die hard Sox fan since the summer of 67 when I used to listen to the games on a radio I snuck under my pillow at night. I know that many people have written to you over the past 2 and a half years but I wanted to add my thanks for the risk you took to bring us all a world series. I listened to the 75 series while attending my school in England and would wake up at 2 am every morning to hear the games played. And when the games kept getting postponed because of rain everyone wondered what I had been doing to cause my semi-stupor each morning. When Fiske finally hit his home run I thought sure we would win it all that year. But I have learned the greater the disappointment, there will always be a bigger reward in the end and what you and the rest of our affectionate idiots did to the Yankess made 37 years of frustration worth every minute of it.

The other reason I am writing has nothing to do with baseball and I would not broach the subject here but I have been frustrated in trying to contact you directly through the Red Sox or through some other means. At least this I hope you will read. I have read stories that you collect war memorabilia and a gentle man I know has a very unique collection of war memorabilia going back to World War I. He has an authentic collection of letters, medals, and other personal memorabilia collected often times directly from the flying aces themselves. His collection spans from World War I clear up to and including the Korean War. I have seen the collection and know it to be very authentic and could never be duplicated again because most of aces have long since passed away. The gentleman in question is an older man who had a kidney transplant about 5 years ago and is not in the best of health.

I had made a promise to help try and find a buyer for him because he really is not capable of finding one himself at this point in his life. (Actually he can be a real pain to work with but I guess that goes with the eccentricity of collecting these things). Any way, about 2 years ago I read an article that you collected this type of memorabilia and wanted to find out if you were interested in learning more about his collection.

Actually, as a further reference I know someone who actually went to the same college as you, I think it was in Prescott Arizonia or some place near there. His name was Christopher Shockeye, at least he said he knew you. And of course you could always check with Steve Carlton if you know how to contact him because he knows my name and came to stay at our home in Paulden, Az briefly about 20 years ago. This was about the same time he began building his home near Durango.

I am not sure about how you could contact me but I would be glad to send you my email address and contact information if you would like to pursue the war memorabila. I can personally state I have never seen such an extensive collection in my entire life and have known the man for years as we owned the ranch next door to him for 8 years. If you are not interested it would be nice to know that as well. I do not know if I should leave my email address on this blog or not nor am I sure if i will spot your answer to my question.

In the meantime, I think you and the team are going to have a fantastic year and with Pap back in the bullpen, which was the only thing that really made any sense, I believe all of the pieces are now in place to give anyone a run for their money.

Curt, First off looking forward to you having another great year at the Fens, My question is as a long time Sox Fan why do they always seem to want to let the guys that play thier hearts out go. The guys that run into walls (Damon) The dirt dogs (Burelson) The guys with the stapeled together ankles (What’s his name) is this a patern or maybe I’m paranoid. Anyway take Dice under your wing it will be good for him and the team. P.S. tell Schondra she’s got me putting on sunscreen on the golf course. I don’t know what the sports scribes are watching but us out in the right-field grandstand can see you giving it your all. No matter what happens with the contract, know you have a huge fanbase in the Nation.

Curt you’ve got some writers in the local rags up in arms over your blog. This is great exactly what the doctor ordered for these pompus over paid talk abouts that call themselves writers the info we gather from your blog is better than all the generic repeating columns in the daily papers. In fact Curt your writing is not only more informational but also very well written.I think the scribes are worried about thier jobs after all if the subject such as yourself is willing to give it to the fan first hand then we have lost our need for that writers daily blab and whining about over paid athletes that don’t like them or have no use for them.It is betwwen all this garbage that they write a story linking the athlete with thier game and that is what we want to read!
Thanks again Curt for 38 Pitches
Pete

First of all, thank you for giving the fans an opportunity to contact you.
My question is this. If it became apparent that Tec needed an extra day’s rest during a pitching cycle, would you be willing to have Mirabelli be the catcher for your starts? I ask this because while Tec is brilliant at calling games, you are perhaps the best prepared pitcher in the league, and therefore are the best able on the staff to call your own game if necessary.

Thank You for visiting with my son last summer and giving him a tour of Fenway while he was on his Dreams Come True trip. You made him very happy. He is in remission now and not doing anymore Chemotherapy or is not on any other medicines. My one question is, How come you have not e-mailed him after you made a pinky promise? I know you are a busy man and have a lot of things going on but try to explain that to a 7 year old. He still to this day asks at least once a week if you sent anything and I have had to come up with diffeent excuses. All he understands is a pinky promise and not that you are probably busier than most people. A point of advice if I may, please do not promise things to kids and not follow through. Thank You again for giving him the chance to meet you and some of the other players. It made him smile for a day during his trying time.

Holy Crap!!!! That was one of the most frustrating posts you have put up so far. Again, I am catching up on these archived posts, but all the negative talk about contracts? Let me just say that it is my belief that contracts are between employer and employee. As far as I am concerned with your contract….Who Cares???? Wow, that was really frustrating. I feel like I missed a ton of that posts because I was getting such a headache from all the negative questions posted.

On a somewhat different note: I am a teacher. I thought it was almost laughable when you mentioned $90,000 for a salary. I am not sure if there is a public school teacher in the country that can make that. There certainly is not in New Hampshire. I suppose there are administrators or college professors that make that kind of money. But not the regular teachers. Like anyone that is happy in life, I believe that most teachers work as teachers because they love what they do. I know for a fact that people begrudge us because we get so much vacation or great hours or whatever. But honestly, I don’t know too many people in other professions that have a masters degree and make as little as $35,000. I love working with kids. I would do it for free if I could. If everyone would find a job that they loved, maybe no one would worry about what everyone else is making. I certainly don’t begrudge you your millions and I don’t expect anyone to begrudge me my days off.

So you're like Walter white and I'm Tuco? Can't make this stuff upYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago

Sure. You have to "take out a loan" for startup, egg cartons and what not, I'll provide the eggs for a piece of the biz.. He saysYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago

True story. Have chicks now, raising egg layers. 12 year old asks if he can start an "egg selling" business when they start laying. so I sayYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago

Anyone else watch the dismantling of Scientology on HBO last night? Creepy as hell, every bit of it. If that isn't a cult nothing isYou never know how strong you can be until being strong is the only choice you have 1 day ago